7 Things to Know About Dating a Highly Sensitive Introvert

If your significant other prefers to stay home instead of meeting up with you and your friends, do not take it personally.

If there’s one thing I know as an introvert, it’s that we “quiet ones” are great at making one-on-one connections. Plus, many of us tend to be introspective, good listeners, and genuine.

When we’re not only introverts but also highly sensitive people, we’re even more affected by our environment — sights, smells, and sounds impact us more. Plus, we’re highly empathic and in tune with other people’s emotions, almost as if they are our own feelings.

Although a common introvert misconception is that we don’t like people, this isn’t true — we just don’t like all people. When we forge a relationship with someone, whether a friend or romantic partner, watch out. Once we’re in, we’re in!

You may have a partner who is a highly sensitive introvert, or you may be romantically interested in one. Either way, here are some things to know when dating them, so you can help the relationship thrive and be your best and happiest self.

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7 Things to Know About Dating a Highly Sensitive Introvert

1. They need downtime to recharge.

Both introverts and highly sensitive people need a lot of downtime, or “me time,” to recharge their energy. Quite often, they feel overwhelmed in noisy places, or in those that have bright lights or a lot of activity, like a bar, classroom, or office. If your significant other prefers to stay home sometimes instead of meeting up with you and your friends, do not take it personally. They’re probably trying to regain their energy so they can feel replenished by the next time they see you.

2. They experience emotions deeply and will be sensitive to your feelings.

Highly sensitive introverts are often very emotional. In fact, one of the things you probably love about them is their ability to sense and feel the pain of other people. The same goes with how they’ll act toward you — they will probably try to be conscientious of your feelings and not say or do anything to hurt you.

On the flip side, if you are not as sensitive, make sure to communicate with empathy and patience. Also, choose your words wisely — you don’t want to inadvertently hurt your partner’s feelings.

3. They are honest and authentic.

Not only are sensitive introverts highly intuitive, but they are also authentic and appreciate that trait in a partner. So be yourself on a date — because they will quickly figure out (and read between the lines) if you aren’t!

Similarly, if you are searching for someone who is sincere, you just found them, and they would love for you to be as sincere as possible in return.

Because of their high levels of empathy, sensitive introverts tend to be deeply caring, and they will go the extra mile to make sure that you are happy. They love deeply, and the phrase, actions speak louder than words is so true when dating a highly sensitive introvert (although you can believe their words, too!).

For example, if you are sick, maybe they will bring you your favorite soup or flowers. If you had a bad day at work, same thing — they’ll comfort you (unless you need some aforementioned alone time). No matter what, they’ll show you how much you mean to them.

4. They prefer low-key environments.

Both introverts and sensitive people usually prefer calm environments over crowded places. If a place is overstimulating — full of noise and people — it can be hard for highly sensitive introverts to focus and be in the moment with you.

An ideal date would be to go to an introvert-friendly place, like a museum or coffee shop, or to take a walk or hike. That way, the two of you can focus on each other without any distractions.

Are you an introvert who shuts down around the people you’re attracted to?

As an introvert, you actually have the amazing ability to be irresistible, without forcing yourself to talk more. It all starts with recognizing the most common myths about dating and learning a framework for fun, flirty conversations — no extroversion needed. To learn how to connect with your true sensuality, relax, and open up on dates, we recommend Michaela Chung’s online courses for introverted men and introverted women.

5. They are selective about who they spend time with.

Introverts don’t consider everyone their friend, and the same goes for romantic partners — they don’t date, or spend time with, just anybody. But once they let you into their life — into their inner circle — it means you really matter to them. You might have a friend (or more) for life.

With that said, even when they become comfortable around you, it doesn’t mean they’ll automatically be comfortable around your family and friends. Just like it took time for them to warm up to you, it will take time for them to warm up to other new people.

Instead of taking them to a big family party, start small: Introduce them to a few family members at a time and go from there. If your introvert needs some alone time in the middle of a get-together, again, don’t take it personally. They probably just need to recharge their energy so they can be their best, socially.

In any case, let them build bonds with your loved ones at their own pace and don’t force anything. Remember, it’s about making them feel comfortable to open up.

6. Simple things make them happy.

Highly sensitive introverts think deeply about life and find joy in simple things. They will appreciate small acts of care that you do for them, like making them a cup of coffee in the morning or surprising them with a good book. Even though these are simple things, they will not go unnoticed. When you show support and care, it means everything to them.

Similarly, they will probably do caring things for you in return. Due to their excellent listening skills, they’ll take note of all the little (and big) things you like — and dislike.

7. They like to keep things private.

Introverts generally prefer to keep their personal lives private, so they might not be comfortable making your relationship public right away. If they don’t upload pictures of the two of you to social media, it’s not necessarily because they want to keep your relationship a secret. Rather, introverts are selective about who they share things with when it comes to their personal lives.

If this privacy concerns you, just ask them about it. In general, if you’re having any doubts about your relationship, it’s best to talk to your partner directly, rather than making assumptions. Besides, the last thing you want to do is force them to do something before they’re ready to do it. Then, once they do tell people about you, you’ll know it’s the real deal!

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