An Introvert’s Personal Guide to Parties

As an Introvert I don’t like going out. There, I said it.

The group invites? I leave them on seen.  The flyers? Cute, but I scroll past. The idea of getting dressed, making small talk, squeezing into a room that’s too loud, too awkward, or too crowded? Yeah… I’d rather be in bed.

But here’s the thing: I still go out sometimes and lately? I’ve actually been enjoying it. Not because I magically turned into a social butterfly, or I discovered some hidden party animal gene. I just figured out how to make events work for me. 

Here are a few tips I’ve used to make parties not suck for me and maybe they could help you too.

Don’t Just “Show Face”

If I’m leaving my house, it better be for a good reason. So now, I set one, a personal mission, a side quest. Maybe it’s to support a friend, to meet two interesting people, to hear a poem that gives me chills, to spark one meaningful conversation or soak up some creative energy.

It’s no longer just a party.  It’s an experience I get to frame however I want.  And that makes the night feel like mine.

ALSO READ: Events Corner: How to Dress for Social Events Without Looking Like You Tried Too Hard

Flip the Switch (If You Want To)

Sometimes, the best parts of a party happen in the quiet corners. The snack table with one other awkward soul, the hallway, or balcony, That’s where you’ll have conversations about art, Lagos, weird hobbies, the thing you’re secretly building.

We get it. You’re a quiet person.  You don’t have to suddenly morph into the loudest voice in the room. Who made that a rule?

Small, genuine moments are better than forced networking every time.

Find the Realest Person in the Room

Forget the most popular person.  Look for the most genuine ones. I know you can tell. As an introvert you’ve not spent all this time observing people for nothing. Maybe they’re standing alone, maybe they’re scanning the room the same way you are, or something about them just stands out to you, go talk to them.

You never know. This could be your future collaborator, a new friend, or just someone who gets you for one night.  

And honestly, sometimes that’s enough.

ALSO READ: Events Corner: 10 Different Types of People You’ll Meet at Every Nigerian Event

The Bathroom Is Your Best Friend

Need a breather? Take one. Run to the bathroom, step outside, sip water, check your phone, come late, leave early, or skip the whole thing if your body says “not tonight.” but also….  stay longer if it feels good.

That’s the beauty of showing up. You get to decide how the night goes.  You’re not there to impress anyone.  You’re there to have a good time, your way.

Ready, Set… Go (If You Feel Like It)

If you’re thinking of stepping out a little more this year, start with events that already feel like you. Love spoken word? Go to that.  Love cozy jazz nights? Do that.  Hate loud spaces? You don’t have to be in them. 

ALSO READ: Events Corner: How to Choose An Event That Matches Your Energy 

There’s a sweet spot somewhere for everyone, even at that loud party there’s one for you as an introvert. You just have to find yours and if you need a head start, check out events on Fusion for events that spark joy.