An introvert’s guide to boundaries

10 Prompts to Protect Your Peace

As an introvert, I might look like I’m doing nothing when in my head, I’m really, really busy.

Sometimes, people mistakenly think that I’m bored or that I have free time to hang out, chit chat, or help them floss their cat.

Nope. Just happily and/or productively immersed in my own thoughts. In other words: I’m not ignoring anyone, I’m just introverting.

Does this happen to you, too?

I love people, I really do. But sometimes, being around people can be draining. To protect my energy levels (and maintain my sanity), I’ve had to learn how to set boundaries with the people in my life.

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Come out of the Bubble to make it Better

It might seem counterintuitive to do this since it requires that we come out of the bubble, but, please, hear me out.

Here’s what works for me: I hit pause on my inner world and use the situation as a teaching moment. It can be frustrating, sure, but it’s also a chance to set boundaries and communicate one’s needs to others. Take this for example. If someone interrupts my alone time, I might politely explain that I need some space to recharge.

Boundaries aren’t always easy, and, like most things introvert, can be awkward. Cringey even. But, hey, it can make things more introvert-friendly in the long run.

Besides, I’m accustomed to being awkward. It’s my natural stat

Introvert Boundary Setting Prompts

I made of list of 10 other things you could say to set boundaries or help people understand your needs as an introvert.

Think of them as prompts if you like, or just use them as scripts while you figure out what works for you.

“I need some time to recharge after being around people.”
“I’m not comfortable talking about that right now.”
“I prefer to spend time alone/with a small group of people.”
“I need some time to think before I answer that.”
“I’m an introvert, so sometimes I need time to myself. This is one of those times.”
“I’m sorry, but I don’t want to go to that event.”
“Please don’t take it personally if I don’t want to talk.”
“I’d love to go out with you another time.”
“Thank you for understanding that I need some space.”
“I appreciate your patience while I am in Introvert Recovery Mode.”

If you ARE an introvert, I hope you found these helpful.

If you are NOT an introvert, I hope they inspired ideas on the care and happiness of the introverts in your life.

Please share this post on social media and tag friends. Win-win. It makes the world a little more introvert-friendly. 🙂 After all, we are the majority. Worldwide. Statistically. 😉