While introverts can enjoy socializing, it’s often in our quiet moments alone that we find our greatest happiness.
When you’re an introvert, it can be easy to feel as if something about you is wrong. Society often celebrates extroverted activities like big parties, nights out, and loud concerts. But what if those events fill you with dread, leave you exhausted, and make you feel hungover for days?
(Are you an introvert? Here are 21 signs that confirm you’re an introvert.)
As introverts, socializing can quickly drain our energy. While we might manage to live an extroverted lifestyle for a short time — and maybe even enjoy it — we eventually need to retreat and recharge in the sweetness of solitude.
For introverts, true happiness often comes from the simple things that replenish our energy, rather than those that drain it. However, these things don’t always make sense to extroverts who thrive in lively social settings. Here are ten things that typically bring joy to introverts.
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10 Things That Fill Introverts with Joy
1. Pets at parties
Is there anything more comforting than a pet walking into the room at a social event? Small talk can be taxing for us introverts, even with familiar people. It’s natural for us to gravitate towards furry friends who don’t require conversation. After all, animals are often an introvert’s best friend.
As a bonus, the tactile sensation of petting an animal can offer relief if you’re feeling overstimulated, a common experience for introverts who are also highly sensitive people.
2. Coming home to your own pet, the perfect roommate for an introvert
The only thing better than encountering a pet at someone else’s place is coming home to your own. Pets and introverts are perfect for each other — they offer the type of companionship introverts desire. They’re content to sit quietly by your side without expecting conversation. Your pet doesn’t question why you’re quiet or worry that you don’t like them just because you don’t want to talk. Pets accept you just as you are.
3. Drinking a hot beverage on a quiet morning, alone
The world can be overwhelmingly noisy. Who wants to jump right into the action first thing in the morning? Many introverts appreciate a slow, quiet start to their day before heading into the world.
In those early moments alone, there’s something special about the first hot beverage of the morning. Whether you like to linger in your pajamas or get dressed and step outside for some fresh air, that first sip of coffee or tea is a truly sacred moment.
4. That one person who understands your inner world
Introverts often have rich inner lives filled with deep, meaningful (and sometimes silly) thoughts. We usually explore this inner world alone, as it can be a way to recharge our energy after socializing.
While many people focus on outward appearances, finding someone who wants to delve into your inner world can feel incredibly validating. They just “get” you. This is the partner or friend with whom you can spend time and still feel energized; their company doesn’t leave you feeling drained. Such a person is rare, but once you find them, they’re someone to hang onto.
5. Unexpectedly getting the night to yourself (because plans were canceled)
Have you ever agreed to go out while feeling energized and sociable, only to regret it when the time comes? Even if it’s an activity you usually enjoy, it can be hard to have fun when you’re just not in the mood and would rather stay in and enjoy some solitude.
(Speaking of solitude, here’s the science behind why introverts need alone time.)
When you get that call or text canceling the plans, the relief is immense. Suddenly, the night is yours. Slipping into your pajamas and curling up on the couch feels even better than usual because it’s unexpected “me time” returned to you.
6. Silencing your phone for some much-needed peace and quiet
Sometimes, even texting can feel draining, especially if you’re someone who focuses deeply on whatever activity you’re doing. If you’re in a group chat or have an overly chatty coworker, friend, or family member, the constant buzzing or ringing can be exhausting when you’re trying to recharge.
Even with your phone on silent, the mere sight of it lighting up with a new message or email can be distracting. Occasionally, turning off your phone and completely unplugging from the world can provide the peace and quiet that introverts often need.
7. Going out alone
Have you ever felt alone in a crowd? Some places can give you that sense of solitude, even when surrounded by people, and that can be just as rejuvenating as spending time alone at home.
So, head out by yourself to browse shops or enjoy lunch without the need to coordinate or check in with someone else. Going to the movies or the theater alone offers a special kind of bliss; as the lights dim, you can immerse yourself in the story unfolding on the screen or stage. After all, there are many benefits to spending time alone in public.
8. Traveling alone
Traveling alone might sound intimidating, but it can be incredibly liberating for an adventurous introvert. Like going out by yourself, solo travel puts you fully in control — you’re in the driver’s seat (whether or not you’re actually driving). There’s no need to coordinate plans with others or make conversation along the way. Instead, you can enjoy your own thoughts and company in a new setting. After all, the right environment is magic for introverts and sensitive people.
9. Getting lost in a good book, movie, or show
Introverts are often have active imaginations and rich inner worlds, making them perfect audiences for a captivating story. Finding a book to get lost in, or a movie or TV show to binge-watch, provides an outlet for their imagination. Well-developed fictional characters can even feel like companions. With the right story, introverts can get lost in it for hours and emerge feeling refreshed.
Do you ever struggle to know what to say?
As an introvert, you actually have the ability to be an amazing conversationalist — even if you’re quiet and hate small talk. To learn how, we recommend this online course from our partner Michaela Chung. Click here to check out the Introvert Conversation Genius course.
10. Ordering online so there’s no human interaction
Ordering in is great, but it’s even better when you can do it without having to talk to anyone. Food delivery apps make it easy for us introverts to have meals delivered right to our door without any direct interaction. This is ideal for those weekends when your big plans involve going nowhere, seeing no one, and just staying in.
But it’s not just food. You can also have household essentials, clothes, and groceries delivered simply by placing an order online. While it’s not something you’ll want to do all the time, for those days when you’re recovering from a lot of “people-ing,” delivery can be a lifesaver.
Joy Is Personal — Find It Your Way
The sources of your joy may differ from popular opinion, and that’s perfectly okay. While introverts can enjoy socializing, it’s often in our quiet moments alone that we find our greatest happiness. Joy is a deeply personal experience, and wherever you find it — or don’t find it — is just fine. Ultimately, embracing what fulfills you, rather than rejecting it, is key to living a joyful life as an introvert in an extroverted world. 
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