How to Successfully Engage with the Outside World as an Introvert: Try the “Forward Technique”

06.04.2024 18:15

It would be a mistake to call introversion a diagnosis, because it is simply a feature of the mental organization, when the comfort zone is not outside, but inside a person.

However, society is not going to take someone’s comfort into account – it demands that you follow social norms: meet people, go through interviews, communicate with a salesperson, a taxi driver, a boss…

If you want to overcome the obstacle course while maintaining your mental health, use the so-called "forward technique."

When it comes in handy

The "Forward Technique" may be needed if you find yourself in one of the following situations:

• You need to ask for help or support;
• You want to ask your boss for a salary increase or a bonus;
• Your neighbors are disturbing you with loud music and you want to let them know about it;
• You noticed that the seller has overcharged you and you want to point this out to him;
• You need to make an appointment with a doctor or other specialist using the telephone, and other similar situations.

Ball
Photo: © Belnovosti

How to apply

A forward in football is an attacking player who scores goals. In essence, a forward, when attacking, defends the interests of the team, which requires some aggression from him.

Because introverts direct their aggression inward rather than vice versa, it is difficult for them to ask questions, make requests, insist, and defend their interests.

In addition, introverts often think about how their opponents will react.

As a result, indecisive, they can walk for hours, putting off the unpleasant task for later.

Instead, you should gather your courage and throw an imaginary ball to the other person. Don't think about it - just act.

The secret is to take on the role of a forward defending the team instead of the position of the one asking.

To do this, you should mentally shift the focus from yourself to your loved ones - it is always easier to ask for someone else.

Let's explain with an example: ask for a raise so you can pay for your child's lessons or a discount from the store so you can buy more groceries for a family dinner.

Previously, we talked about how to avoid awkward pauses in communication.

Elena Shimanovskaya Author: Elena Shimanovskaya Internet resource editor


Content
  1. When it comes in handy
  2. How to apply