We just don't have the energy. Introverted people most often find socialisation to be a drain on them, and being alone to be a way to recover. Even if it's just a text message, and even if it's someone they care about, it can still be a drain.
They prefer to think before responding.
As I touched on above, as introverts, we are constantly thinking… and overthinking. And this relates to our texting. Rather than spending time being engaged with the external world, we're often in our internal world — our heads.
They're feeling tired and overwhelmed. The Introvert is recuperating after too much social exertion. You've hurt their feelings, and they're avoiding confrontation. They have social anxiety at the moment (due to crowds, loud noises, bright lights, or a combination thereof).
Introverts are people who prefer calm environments. While they might enjoy social interactions, they very much need their own quiet space too. Introverts often need to recharge after prolonged social interactions. Too much stimulation will overwhelm them.
Social interaction can fuel some people, especially extroverts. To introverts, the same level of social interaction can be draining instead. While introverts can appreciate socializing, they invest a lot of energy trying to navigate socially demanding environments, leading to social exhaustion.
Being alone gives us time to think and do tasks without needing to worry about others' needs. Introverts love to spend time alone to recharge and think.
Social discomfort.
However, social situations can be stressful and overwhelming for some introverts, particularly in larger, noisier groups, which can make it difficult for them to fully engage in conversations. This can lead to them withdrawing, appearing distant or uninterested in what others are saying.
When an introvert doesn't like you, one of the signs is that they don't show any interest in you. They don't ask about your life or what you are going through at work. An introvert that feels ambivalent toward you or one who is very happy with you will make some effort at social niceties.
When Introverts become angry, they tend to hold everything inside, hiding their anger from others and even from themselves. Or at least this is what most people think. In fact, this idea is more myth than reality. When Introverts become angry, they may try to repress their feelings.
If you want to make an introvert feel like they're missing you, try to make them feel special. Introverts enjoy being alone, but you can help them remember you by leaving them a sweet note. Messages are usually well-received by quiet people, and they'll be more likely to remember you when they are alone.
Examples include sending you a message or call, being in places you tend to be (yes, she did her research, no, she's not stalking), or laughing at your jokes. No matter the gender, the reserved introvert will do something a little out of their character to get your attention and show attraction.
They avoid eye contact or don't maintain it for long.
Not all introverts are shy or have social anxiety, but some do. Introverts who truly feel uncomfortable in crowds often have a hard time maintaining eye contact. Plus, they don't want to encourage others to talk to them.
Introverts get annoyed when people don't understand their need for alone time. Even worse is when someone they love takes their need for alone time personally. For example, an extrovert may assume their introverted loved one doesn't want to spend time together because they need alone time.
Introverts may hide their inner feelings or excitement, but that doesn't mean they can't express themselves creatively.
Introverts may struggle to initiate conversations, especially with people they don't know well. Small talk is generally uncomfortable and undesirable for them, which makes this even more difficult. Asking simple get-to-know-you questions may feel laborious and awkward for them.
Introverts don't give up easily. They have practice trying to get their thoughts and voices heard over the cacophony created by extroverts. Introverts are fantastic active listeners. They don't interrupt, but listen carefully to extract meaning.
Yet, there are times when we do want to spend time with someone who just “gets” us best. So if an introvert reaches out to you craving a coffee date and meaningful conversation, know it's a big deal and that you mean a lot to them! They might even — *gasp* — call you on the phone!
Too much alone time can result in a feeling of loneliness and isolation, whereas too little alone time can cause overstimulation and burnout. Although it can be difficult at first, introverts can find an ideal balance for themselves with practice.
That is why overstimulating environments can be energy draining for us introverts, leaving us lacking in energy. When you feel like this, you may find that you want to go somewhere quiet to replenish and recharge. You may be feeling quite positive so may not associate it as being drained from overstimulation.
Yes, one of the essential traits of introversion is the desire to rest and recharge alone – or as it is called, turn inward. Still, that doesn't mean an introverted person can't experience loneliness. They can, and of course, they require friendships and emotional support.