Speaking as an introvert, introverts are usually interacting with the world in their own thoughts. They might be in a group of people or even when they’re alone, their natural state isn’t to “be in the moment”. Whatever is happening, the interaction and experience is received then usually goes through a process of thinking, sorting and assessment. In a group of people, an introvert is always in some processing of the interaction. Whereas an extrovert, intuitively is already “getting” the energy, vibe, subtext, unspoken social queues of the group dynamics. They’re able to react and respond, quickly and instinctually within the group dynamics to keep the group energy up and going. They are more naturally “in the moment”. But an introvert is always in some part of the past of what just happened, maybe connecting it to some deeper past, while trying to assess what that means for the future. More comfortable with the inner dialogue instead of letting the external present dialogue be the “real” conversation.
As an introvert I will say it’s tiring, trying to maintain two different conversations. But I’ve found being present and practicing being extroverted has been helpful. What does that mean? How does an introvert practice being extroverted, that sounds fake and unnatural. It’s definitely not my more instinctual, default state but with some practice has become easier to get into and become more comfortable and natural. And I don’t feel as drained, but in fact feel somewhat more energized.
So how? It’s just practicing being in the moment. And that starts with not trying to always be assessing or judging the situation, conversation or interaction. The second thing is being open and more receptive to the other person’s energy, that could be facial expressions, body language, inflections, tones. This might be harder to pick up, but trusting that the receptors are there even if it doesn’t feel like anything at first. It’s like trying to use a muscle that hasn’t been used in a while. And as you practice it more, it’ll become stronger and more sensitive.