How to Survive the Holidays as an Introvert

If you’re an introvert like myself, you may have lived experiences similar to my own, where you find the holidays more draining than fun.

In order to survive the holidays as an introvert, you may have to work particularly hard at making decisions that will conserve your energy.

Are you nodding your head alongside me?

Many people believe that I’m extroverted.  Let’s face it – I’m very social and I LOVE to talk.  However, I actually become drained easily from a lot of interaction.

Over the years, I’ve learned to be mindful of my schedule, and to make decisions that fit my own personality and needs.  This allows me to show up as the person who I want to be when interacting with others.

When I don’t do this, I end up feeling drained, cranky and irritable.  I have less patience.  I become more judgmental of people.  And of myself. 

And this is simply not who I want to be.

If you’re feeling that you can relate to this, here is one very simple and powerful tip that will help you to survive the holidays as an introvert.

Just say no.

You’re allowed to say no simply because you want to.

With no explanations or justifications.

Just… a simple no.

Say no to anything that you know will leave you feeling drained – unless you have time afterwards to replenish your energy.

Say no to multiple consecutive outings.  For example, if your family is out of town and you’re expected to bounce from one house to the next, day after day, consider scheduling shorter visits or an empty day in between to give you the downtime you need.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are expected to attend a larger gathering for a full day, say no to staying there the entire time.  Instead, you could bring some boots and go for a walk.  Or bring your bathing suit and go to the local pool to swim a few laps.  Carve out the downtime that you need to be able to manage the gathering without feeling overwhelmed.

Say no to spending your time in the mall hunting for the perfect gift for someone who needs nothing. Choose to gift a meaningful experience together, or make a donation in the person’s name instead.

Say no to the person who comes to your house and tends to stay until two in the morning when you wanted to be in bed at 10pm. Be really clear on what your boundaries are before you invite that person over, and then stick to it.

Say no to having your kids around the entire holidays if that adds to you feeling drained. Plan some play dates with friends and take turns having each other’s kids for a few days over the holidays.

You may also consider signing your kids up for a day activity you know they’ll enjoy.

The bottom line here?  Say no to anything that doesn’t say yes to you first.  I promise you.  Saying no more often will help you survive the holidays as an introvert.

And if you happen to be an extrovert… well then, do all of these things activities two or three times!  Write a blog post about it.  Us introverts… we’ll read it in a quiet room all by ourselves!

Happy holidays everyone!

If you liked this post, you might also like:

10 Daily Mindful Moments that Will Decrease Your Stress

Setting Boundaries and Sticking to Them

How to Fit Mindfulness Into a Busy Day

Lindsay Lapaquette

Lindsay Lapaquette

Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc.(A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. As a former Speech-Language Pathologist, Lindsay applies her expertise in the neuroscience of communication and connection to help managers foster an environment of trust and respect in their teams, so that everyone can bring their best selves to work.

Lindsay’s approach has been profoundly influenced by her work with Indigenous organizations, her experience as a parent to two neurodivergent children, and the premature loss of both of her parents. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise.

Lindsay Lapaquette

Lindsay Lapaquette

Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc.(A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. As a former Speech Language Pathologist, Lindsay applies her expertise in the neuroscience of communication and connection to help managers foster an environment of trust and respect in their teams, so that everyone can bring their best selves to work.

Lindsay’s approach has been profoundly influenced by her work with First Nations organizations, her experience as a parent to two children with pervasive mental health challenges, and the premature loss of both of her parents. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise.

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