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Introvert to Extrovert - is it possible to change?

I keep seeing extroverted people and they always seem so happy and full of life. I want to be like that, not the socially awkward introvert that I am just now.

In addition, in order to be considered for my dream job working on cruise ships, I do actually need to become more of a people person anyway.

How can I do this?
I've become slightly more of a people person as I've grown up, especially in college since taking Drama and Theatre Studies I've had to develop a persona to fit in with other generally loud people.

That being said, I can do it but I still need days to myself to recuperate and have alone time. Other than that, I don't think you ever really stop being an introvert since by definition an introvert relaxes by themselves. You just learn to hide it.
You just have to try to talk to people. The more you do it, the easier it gets.

Also join public speaking/debating societies so you can practice with other people and build up your confidence before you 'go live' and do it in the real world.
Original post by xEmilyxx
I've become slightly more of a people person as I've grown up, especially in college since taking Drama and Theatre Studies I've had to develop a persona to fit in with other generally loud people.

That being said, I can do it but I still need days to myself to recuperate and have alone time. Other than that, I don't think you ever really stop being an introvert since by definition an introvert relaxes by themselves. You just learn to hide it.


I suppose one can still be a natural introvert (needing time to oneself) whilst still having an extrovert persona.

I no longer want to be the socially awkward guy that listens to music and doesn't talk to anyone in the common room. I would rather be an uber extrovert like Adam Rippon.
I recognize that there are pros and cons to each, but it is a fact that fun people tend to be extroverts or at least have an extrovert persona.
I am confident but also considered “socially awkward” by a few.

I wouldn’t care too much about labels. Focus on building meaningful relationships, talking with eye contact, and getting to know people (talk about common interests).
Original post by SuperHuman98
I am confident but also considered “socially awkward” by a few.

I wouldn’t care too much about labels. Focus on building meaningful relationships, talking with eye contact, and getting to know people (talk about common interests).


I do need the extrovert persona if I want to work in a certain job though.
Original post by Joe2001
I do need the extrovert persona if I want to work in a certain job though.

Which job? Generally if you are really good at your job and enjoy it the confidence should come naturally. Like I consider all my teachers to be confident.

when you focus on things like “awkward” “introvert” “extrovert” you are giving power to others who label you as such. For me when I listened to people who called me awkward I really ended up becoming awkward.
Per Myers Briggs, I am an "ISFJ". I can hardly say that the celebs whom I share that with is very encouraging.
Original post by SuperHuman98
Which job? Generally if you are really good at your job and enjoy it the confidence should come naturally. Like I consider all my teachers to be confident.

when you focus on things like “awkward” “introvert” “extrovert” you are giving power to others who label you as such. For me when I listened to people who called me awkward I really ended up becoming awkward.


Cruise Director on cruise ships. Head of entertainment, face of the ship, host of main events. Generally supposed to be fun and energetic.
Original post by Joe2001
Cruise Director on cruise ships. Head of entertainment, face of the ship, host of main events. Generally supposed to be fun and energetic.

To answer your thread I think yes you can become more extroverted through gaining life experience, not caring about what others think and working on your social skills eg. Eye contact
Original post by Joe2001
I keep seeing extroverted people and they always seem so happy and full of life. I want to be like that, not the socially awkward introvert that I am just now.

In addition, in order to be considered for my dream job working on cruise ships, I do actually need to become more of a people person anyway.

How can I do this?


I am a definite intovert - but in uniform I become confident. I am a nurse.

People LOVE talking about themselves - pick something about them - children, pastimes, celebrities and run with it
Is there anything more?

A lot of this is to ensure that I could be good at this job. Entertainment is hardly for the introvert. I've been on ships and know the type of personality that works in this job. There are a few introverts that do it, but they are not good at it (no offense to them).
Reply 13
Yes it’s possible. I change from introvert to extrovert and vice versa easily.
Original post by withut
Bit of advice, **** the Myers Briggs test, I wasted too much time looking into that. As soon as I regained confidence in myself the test just looks seem silly.

I'm an introvert, always will be. That's not a bad thing, I can pretend to enjoy myself in social situations, pretend to be an extrovert. What I *did* change about myself was how shy I was -- how I'd just crawl up at the idea of socialising. Do some public speaking stuff, even if you suck. You'll still probably be an introvert, and that's okay, but perhaps you won't be as shy any more.


Thanks for your advice. I always thought that the Myers Briggs seemed a bit odd, and the fact that there were not much exciting personalities there made me think it is nonsense. Seems to mostly be Republicans/Republican First Ladies and Mother Theresa.
Original post by h333
Yes it’s possible. I change from introvert to extrovert and vice versa easily.


How do you do that?
Reply 16
Original post by Joe2001
How do you do that?

I’m not sure if there is a proper answer to this but I guess confidence and experience/practice helps. I usually like to talk to people (mostly in person), smile and be positive around others. For example, when I have guests at home, I make sure they feel welcome and converse with them instead of hiding in my room or something. I am okay with initiating conversations and don’t overthink about it. I try to share my thoughts and feelings.
No... but their apparent happiness is false. Do you want to dance on a table saying look at me, I'm special because I can move? I certainly don't!
Extrovert people may appear to be always happy, but that might well be a way of hiding their true feelings. Look at Robin Williams. I also know some extrovert people who are a pain in the butt, being loud and insensitive to those around them.

If you want more confidence for your dream job start in a small way. Work as a volunteer with young children, or help out at an old people's club. Anywhere where you need to interact with strangers. It's easier if you have a position of authority because the people will automatically want to listen.

Try to learn a few short jokes. Talk to people about topics they are interested in. For example:
'Hello Mrs X, that's a beautiful ring you're wearing'
'Yes, my husband bought it for me in Egypt'
'Egypt? Have you been there? What was it like?'

Or
Good evening. Can I ask what are you looking forward to most of all on this trip?
Meeting new people.
'Really? Me too. You must have some interesting stories to tell, yourself.

It gets easier with practice!

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