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How to Maximize the Life of Your Social Battery

An introvert’s guide to getting ahead of social fatigue.

Corrie Evanoff

Read when you’ve got time to spare.

After a few years defined by social distancing, chances are you’ve been invited to something—or some things—recently. And whether you’re preparing for parties, conferences, or returning to the office, you may appreciate a refresher on interacting with humans in real life—and doing so without being drained by the experience.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best advice from around the web to boost your confidence. Read on for the mental tricks and cope-ahead tools to help you overcome potential social exhaustion and thrive in the moment.

Image by Cavan Images/Getty Images

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How to Excel at the Moments That Matter in Life: Think Like an Actor

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5 Questions the Most Interesting People Will Always Ask in Conversations

The point is to get beyond the dreaded small talk.

The Science Behind Why Some of Us Are Shy

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How to Make Networking Events Less Awkward: Be a Croissant, Not a Bagel

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How to Come Out of Your Shell

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4 Things Every Introvert Should Do Before a Networking Event

And why this introverted entrepreneur believes we should all stop calling it “networking.”

How to Talk to Anyone: The Experts’ Guide

Handle awkward date silences, end a conversation with a stranger—plus chat to your children, your parents and your boss.

An Adult’s Guide to Social Skills, for Those Who Were Never Taught

It’s a shame so few of us are taught the basics of how to interact constructively with each other. If you never were, we’re here to help.

The Personality Trait That Makes People Feel Comfortable Around You

People with positive “affective presence” are easy to be around and oil the gears of social interactions.

The Rise of the Social Vampire, and How to Handle the One in Your Life

Psychologists say that, if you don’t know who the social vampire is in your friendship group, there’s a very high chance it’s you.

What Makes People Charismatic, and How You Can Be, Too

Simple tips to break through your social anxieties and make real, genuine connections with others.

How to Remember What People Say

We come into conversations with our own agendas and low attention spans, but if you want to build better relationships you need to master active listening.

How To Say No, For The People Pleaser Who Always Says Yes

It can be tempting to say yes to things you just don't want to do. Might as well just get it done so nothing bad happens, right? But there's a high price for constantly aiming to make other people happy.

A Gentleman’s Guide to Getting Out of a Conversation

Because telling someone to shut the heck up isn’t ‘gentlemanly’ or ‘civilized’ or ‘appropriate for a 5-year-old’s birthday party, Brian, Jesus.

How to Be Better at Parties

Who among us, save the most self-sufficient and confident partygoer (and who is that insufferable person, anyway?), wouldn’t like to party better?

Acting Like an Extrovert Has Benefits (But Not Always for Introverts)

Psychologists are beginning to explore the potential life-changing benefits of certain personality traits.

How To Avoid Social Exhaustion

An introvert’s guide to skipping the social fatigue—without totally ghosting your friends and family.

The Introvert’s Guide to Actually Enjoying a Party

By accepting your social battery life for what it is and getting to know the different factors that support or strain it, you stand a better chance of getting through an event in a stress-free way—and of actually enjoying yourself in the process.

How to Be Less Judgmental

Understanding and challenging the exhausting habit of being overly critical can improve your relationships—and your quality of life.

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