People who dislike being in large groups or who are exhausted by interacting with others in social settings are frequently stereotyped as reclusive, standoffish, or simply different. We now know that these folks are likely social introverts. Far from being unfriendly, they love having fun and engaging with others, albeit in smaller groups or low-pressure events. Because so many social events cater to large groups of people, it’s easy for someone introverted to feel left out. If you identify as a social introvert, you may be looking for ways to have fun. Here are eight hobbies for social introverts to get you started:
Crafting: A Great Way To Unwind
Even if you aren’t incredibly “crafty,” working with your hands with a small group of friends is a great way to unwind and have fun. You don’t need to be skilled, be talented, or even produce something visually appealing. Instead, crafting allows for in-depth conversation while giving you something to do with your hands. Taking up a craft like origami, calligraphy, or jewelry will essentially enable you to express yourself creatively in an intimate setting and can be very therapeutic. Plus, you and your friends can show off what you did once you’re done!
Make Music Your Social Life
Music can make us feel more connected to our surroundings, but going to concerts, clubs, or parties can quickly drain your social battery. Instead, consider taking voice lessons, joining an a capella or jazz choir, or even guitar or piano lessons with a small group of people. In this situation, music will allow you to relax and unwind, and it can be a fantastic way to make new friends. Learning to sing or play an instrument is a beautiful way to share a common bond with other people, and it doesn’t have to be in the context of a massive concert with many people around. You can take classes in person with an instructor or even online without leaving the convenience of your own house.
Enjoy Nature’s Beauty Alone
Being outside with a couple of close friends recharges many social introverts. Although many people associate being outdoors with camping, you don’t have to sleep outside to experience nature. Why not try:
- Stargazing and studying the planets
- Foraging for edible plants and mushrooms
- Taking a day hike and admiring the scenery
- Plinking cans or target shooting
- Archery at your local archery club
- Attending a program at your local nature center
- Learning to observe birds
- Getting some camo gear and trying hunting or fishing
As a social introvert, there are countless ways to enjoy being outside that allow you to connect with nature, a few people who are important to you, and yourself.
Play Video Games and Learn New Skills
Video games are an excellent hobby for social introverts. Social introverts can learn many skills from video games, like storytelling, problem-solving, and teamwork. As a social introvert, you can easily play with other people online or with a couple of close friends in person. You don’t even need an expensive system to play. Many games can be played on your current computer. How do you get started? Many of the “old school” video games you may have played as a child are now available online!
Small Board Games
Board games are a great social activity, but sometimes you need to be in the mood to be around a big group. That doesn’t mean you can’t participate in board game night. You need to find a game that works well for you and one other person or even three other people. With smaller games, like Forbidden Island and Tranquility, you don’t have to throw a huge party to play. If you’re not up for leaving the house, you can play board games online with the help of a tabletop simulator!
Try Woodworking
Woodworking is a skill many people will admire. Why not spend some time improving your home while taking up a hobby with a couple of other fellow woodworking enthusiasts? With just a few tools, you can start doing something like whittling immediately. It’s also portable, so you can take this hobby to a carport, shed, garage, attic, or anywhere else you want to go with your friends.
Improve Your Cooking And Baking Skills
Eating is something we all have in common, and everyone loves a good cook. Taking up cooking or baking with two or three other people is a fun way to learn a new skill and try something different. You can share your final recipe results with others or enjoy them solo. Many great classes are available online or in small groups in person.
Gardening Is Awesome For Introverts
Gardening is an excellent activity for social introverts. It’s a relaxing way to spend time in nature with a couple of other green thumbs and get your hands dirty. You may have hesitated in the past because you don’t have a large yard, but you don’t need one.You can grow an indoor herb garden; start a garden on your patio, balcony, or deck; or even find a community garden where, for a small fee, you can get a little plot of land to “farm” with your closest friends. Gardening is a very rewarding way to spend time with a small group of people, and you can save some money on the cost of food in the process.
There’s nothing wrong with being an introvert! Don’t force yourself to be someone you’re not. It’s nice to spend time with just a few friends versus a large group. Hopefully, these tips will help you to ramp up your social life in a way that works for you.
