An Introvert’s Guide To Making New Friends

Engaging in social interactions to make new friends can feel daunting, so we’ve put together our top tips for forging new friendships as an introvert.

Finding your people is tough. Period. And if your idea of a fun Friday night is curled up with a book and a weighted blanket, going to loud social events or networking parties probably doesn't feel like a compatible social strategy.

Friendship-building is less about clout and more about connecting with people who actually get you. If you're ready to expand your social connections without ditching your beloved solitude, here are some totally doable tips that'll get you socializing in a way that feels natural. 

How Do I Know If I'm an Introvert?

Before we explore what it means to be an introvert, it's important to recognize that there is no “fixed” definition to the term. Humans are complex. We don't live in a black-and-white world. This makes it difficult to place ourselves — or anyone around us — in a little box and slap a label on it. 

Energy levels, personality traits and preferences can change yearly, daily or even momentarity. So, let's ditch the stereotypes and take a look at some (of the many) indicators you might be an introvert:

• You’re a pro-level listener: While others are buffering their next sentence, you’re downloading every word. You practice active listening and notice the details.
• Approval? Overrated: You know you're solid with or without it. 
• You recharge alone: After a day of socializing, you might feel more ironed flat than energized. So, time alone is never “lonely,” it’s pure bliss.
• You’re independent to the core: Group projects? Meh. You work best on your own and don’t rely on validation to feel good.
• You keep your circle small (and solid): You’d rather have a few deep connections with people who genuinely understand you.
• Social events = strategy: You're not anti-social, you just need a game plan. Anything from an exit strategy to a good friend to spend your time with makes big social events a lot more manageable.

Interestingly, Myers-Briggs' insights show an almost 50:50 split between introverts and extroverts. Realistically, most of us are ambiverts trailing along the energy spectrum. However you roll — hardcore introvert, social butterfly or somewhere in between — your friendships should match your vibe.

How Introverts Differ From Extroverts in Social Situations

While introverts and extroverts both enjoy socializing, they experience social interactions differently. An introvert might seek depth over breadth, prioritizing personal, intimate relationships and quiet connections, whereas extroverts blossom in more energetic, spontaneous environments. Staying conscious of these differences — and how they sit with you — can help you navigate social environments in a way that feels organic and uplifting. 

Here are a few aspects that show how introverts and extroverts might approach social interactions:

• Energy levels: Introverts recharge solo. For extroverts, people are their power bank. A long event may leave an introvert feeling drained, whereas an extrovert might feel invigorated.
• Preferred conversations: Introverts thrive on deeper, more focused discussions. On the other hand, extroverts are comfortable bouncing between topics and snacking on lighthearted small talk.
• Social comfort zones: Intimate settings with familiar faces are usually where introverts feel most comfortable. Extroverts are more often at ease in large crowds or spontaneous gatherings.
• Processing thoughts: Before speaking, introverts tend to take time to consider their words carefully. Extroverts may process thoughts out loud, sharing ideas as they come.
• Friendship styles: Introverts build deep, long-term friendships with a few close people, while extroverts are more likely to have a wide circle of acquaintances and close friends.

How To Make Friends as an Introvert

As mentioned earlier, most of us exist somewhere on a spectrum. Many factors can impact how we feel and socialize on different days. Looking for friends without the chaos? Here's how introverts do it:

Embrace Online Friendships

For many introverts, stepping into a crowded room can feel like diving into a mosh pit without shoes. Making friends online offers a totally different vibe — one that lets you connect on your own terms.

By jumping onto a one-to-one video chat app like Azar, you control when and how you interact. That could mean talking for hours with a new person or dipping in and out when you feel up to it.

Azar lets you chat with people from around the world — on your terms. There’s no pressure, just casual, chill convos. Plus, filters allow you to find like-minded people, making it easier to bond over your shared interests. Embracing digital connections offers more flexibility with your social energy, empowering you to build friendships that resonate with your style.

Aim for Quality Over Quantity

Having more friends doesn't necessarily equate to greater happiness. Rather than structuring a huge network to feel fulfilled, the trick is to curate a few meaningful connections. Why? Because quality friendships offer something shallower connections don't: good company that gets your vibe, respects your space and doesn't mistake a reflective approach for disinterest. 

You don't need to spread your energy thin maintaining surface-level relationships. Instead, focus on bonds that spark joy and understanding. These friends are the ones who can sit in cozy silence, intuit when to check in and are totally in tune with your need for solitude. Prioritizing quality over quantity is all about making room for friendships that feel authentic and easy.

Explore Your Socialization Needs

We all operate on our own social wavelength — what works for one might not work for another, and that’s totally okay. Some days, you might feel recharged after a quiet one-on-one conversation, while others, you need extended solitude before you’re ready to engage. And because your social battery isn't static, you need to learn to recharge it.

Ditch the forced hangs. Learn what fills your cup and stick to it. Getting to know yourself empowers you to plan your days in a balanced and sustainable way. The better your social life aligns with your needs, the more fulfilling it'll feel.

Think About Who You Already Know

Making friends as an adult is hard enough. You don't always have to start from scratch to forge new relationships. Sometimes, the people you’re meant to connect with are already in your orbit — or at least within easy reach. Consider the colleague whose insights always resonate with you, the classmate who shares your quiet humor or the employee at your fave bookstore whose recommendations have never steered you wrong. 

Granted, making the first move can feel like stepping out of your comfort zone. It might also lead to a great connection you didn’t expect. One super easy way to reach beyond your bubble and practice socializing in a new environment with new people is on digital platforms like Azar. Virtual spaces make it feel a whole lot easier to go with your own flow when you make the first move.

Befriend a Compatible Extrovert

Socializing in smaller gatherings or with a fellow introvert is an obvious choice. But remember: opposites attract. And you might be surprised at how this works with social interaction.

Extroverts thrive in connection, often fluttering through social spaces, while introverts bring a calm, grounding energy to the table. Friendships between the two can create a meaningful dynamic where both individuals offer something the other values. A compatible extrovert won't drown you in plans. Instead, they let you dip your toes in new experiences. In turn, your presence gives them a space for reflective conversations and moments of stillness. 

Plus, having an extroverted buddy can gently nudge you out of your shell while still honoring your need for downtime. If you find yourself drawn to someone with an outgoing nature, embrace the balance and let your energies complement one another.

Notice How You Feel

In friendships, who the other person is falls by the wayside of how you actually feel around them. After spending time with someone, ask yourself: Do I feel lighter or more drained? Do I leave the interaction feeling understood or make myself small to fit in? As an introvert, your social energy is valuable and where you invest it matters. While it's normal to need solitude after socializing, there’s a difference between needing rest and feeling depleted. 

True friendship should bring a sense of ease, not obligation. Be mindful of patterns. Take stock of your feelings and honor them. In learning to notice what's going on inside, you also learn to protect the relationships that genuinely support you.

Move Deeper Into Your Interests

Your interests are a window into who you are — and they can lead you to like-minded souls. Actively pursuing your interests can connect you with kindred spirits — people who value the same things and understand your perspective. 

This could mean joining a book club, enrolling in a class or immersing yourself in an online space where thoughtful discussions unfold. Not only will this allow you to hone your skills, but it also opens the door for organic friendships to form around a shared love. By moving deeper into your world, you may naturally discover others who belong in it.

Find Your People on Azar

At the end of the day, making friends doesn’t require you to change who you are. It’s about understanding your needs and finding people you genuinely vibe with. Whether you're the life of the party for 20 minutes before Irish-exiting or someone who thrives on one-on-one deep dives, there’s no “right” way to socialize. 

Azar is a space where you can lean into what feels natural, set boundaries that protect your energy and stretch your social muscles in ways that actually work for you. Sign up and connect with new people around the world in lighthearted, casual conversations that just fit.

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