LNC business growth requires introverts to be more outgoing. Are you one? In this post, I’ll share five simple things to consider the next time you feel anxious as an introvert.
There is a common misconception that introverts despise social or networking gatherings. However, this isn’t exactly the case. Everyone craves social interaction just in different ways. If you call yourself an introvert, then you understand this all too well.
You want to get out and interact with people, but the way most people do it prevents you from venturing out. You always question how you can find the motivation and determination, and be more outgoing like extroverts.
LNC Business Growth: From Introvert to Outgoing
Fight Your Fears
Most experts claim that if you want to accomplish more in life, you must conquer your fears, and to do so, you need to head them face on. This means if you fear public speaking, find ways to do more of it. Don’t avoid it. Most fears stem from a lack of experience, and simply put, the more you do something, the more experience you will gain.
Extroverts Have Insecurities Too
Realize that you are not alone. Even confident people have moments of weakness. That goes for extroverts too. Even though they often appear to be highly confident and are, it doesn’t mean they don’t have moments of self-doubt. They know how to push through and control their emotions to continue.
Start Small
There is no reason to change overnight, and don’t expect it either. Gradual change is healthier, and research shows you are likely to be more successful in the long run. For example, those who lose a lot of weight right away end up gaining it back faster than those who gradually lose weight, meaning they will be healthier in the long run.
Understand Your Boundaries
You are still an introvert, after all, and there is nothing wrong with that. You can still be an introvert and outgoing. It starts with understanding your boundaries, like putting a time limit on outings or establishing one day alone to yourself each week. Introverts need time to rewind and gain the energy to be social again. Instead of fighting the overwhelming feelings that can result from intense networking and social interaction, limit those experiences.
Start Talking First
Be the first to break the ice in a gathering. Ask other questions and be curious about others. Let others talk about themselves and get to know them. When others get talking, the rest is easy. As your comfort increases, you will realize that diving into the unknown isn’t as scary as it seems.
Start slow and don’t create high expectations for yourself. Remember, to be more outgoing means to trust in yourself and live life with confidence. That doesn’t mean you will be perfect or won’t make mistakes now and then. Pick yourself back up, learn from the mistake, and keep practicing allowing yourself to be more outgoing.
Get tips on effective networking in my book, Networking for LNCs. Get it here at http://LNC.tips/creatingseries.
Pat Iyer is president of The Pat Iyer Group, which develops resources to assist LNCs in obtaining more clients, making more money, and achieving their business goals and dreams.
Pat’s related websites include the continuing education provided on LNCEU.com, the podcasts broadcast at podcast.legalnursebusiness.com, and writing tips supplied at patiyer.com.
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