Introversion is a sensitive topic of debate in the education sector. Psychologists, educators, and administrators alike go to great lengths to understand introverts in schools. It is also a great subject to give your dissertation expert for your research project.
Student life as an introvert is tough. While most of the world around you can’t stop talking, you find energy from silence and solitude. While joining college is an exciting prospect for most students, it is another dreary phase if you are an introvert. The awkward moments, taunts, and struggles in forming friendships are just a few of the problems you will encounter.
One way of dealing with this challenge is to leverage your qualities of introversion and boost them with the best communication skills.
This guide highlights a few communication tips you can use as an introvert in college to make your life more comfortable.
1. Leverage Online Communication
With the advent of digital technology, it is now easier to reach out and make friends. In college, you can collaborate and bond with other students online. It is more comfortable than face to face interactions, and it will also boost your confidence.
By communicating online, you still manage to speak your mind on class subjects and other issues while maintaining your privacy. With time, you will form closer bonds with some of your online collaborators, and you will find it easy to interact.
2. Use your Listening Power
Extroverts like speaking out, and it is terrifying to introverts. In college, you will have to interact with all kinds of people, and they expect you to chip into arguments. However, you can use your intense listening skills to your advantage.
You need to show your acknowledgment of the speaker for them to leave you at peace. You can also defuse tense and awkward moments by nodding in agreement to move on the discussion.
3. Trust Yourself
In college, you have to cope with pressure from different angles. Everyone wants you to join into whatever they like. As an introvert, this is one of the most daunting phases of your life, but you have to trust yourself. This is the only way to make the right decisions.
You have always thought through decisions, and this should not change due to peer pressure. Stick to your guns and take your time when making decisions. Always consider your needs and wellbeing before making a decision.
As the other students discover your introverted nature, they might want to exploit you. You have to use your personality as a strength to always make the right decisions.
4. Learn from a model Extrovert
You have to prepare yourself for several years of life amidst hundreds of extroverts. It is good to prepare yourself and learn how to communicate with everyone around you.
You should consider learning from an extrovert with whom you share some interests. Create a solid foundation for this relationship.
As you gain their trust, speak out your mind, and seek their help to communicate more freely. It is a tough decision to make, but it will help you go through college more comfortably.
5. Learn To Speak Up If You Feel Ignored
This is the toughest communication tip for an extrovert but also the most important. Extroverts will readily speak up whenever they want, but for you, this will not happen.
However, your input is still important in class discussions and other important forums. You should practice to speak up at the most appropriate moments. Look for an opportunity to put across your thought when no one else has the floor to avoid awkward moments.
Wrapping Up
Life as an introvert in college can get tough, but if you work on your communication skills, things will get better. Use these tips to boost your interactions in college and enjoy more comfortable school life.
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