The Inner World of an Introvert: Surviving In-Person Shopping
From Package Addict to In-Person Explorer
Let me tell you, folks, as an introvert, going in person shopping is like facing a lion in the jungle. Okay, maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration, but you get the point. The truth is, I'm not much of a shopper. I don't enjoy spending hours in a store, trying on clothes and debating whether I need that cute top. I am a proud online shopper. This way I can try things on in the comfort of my own home and return them if they don't fit. I'm on first-name basis with my delivery guys - that's how often I get parcels delivered to my doorstep. But, sometimes, going in-person shopping is a necessary evil, and I'll just have to suck it up and endure it.
But when I do go in-person shopping, I have to admit, it can be quite an adventure. Sometimes, I prefer to go alone, without anyone interrupting my thoughts. I can take my time and explore every nook and cranny of the store. But most of the times, I'll just grab what I need and run out of there as fast as I can.
Not long ago, I decided to challenge myself and go in person shopping. I mean, I was getting tired of not being able to see or touch what I was buying. Plus, I was starting to feel like a hermit living in my online shopping bubble. It all started when I realised I needed a new pair of shoes. I had been putting it off for weeks, hoping that my old shoes would magically fix themselves, but alas, it was time to face the music. I browsed online for hours, trying to find the perfect pair that would suit my needs and my budget. But as much as I tried, I couldn't shake the feeling that I needed to see the shoes in person before making a decision.
So, I made my way to the shopping centre. The first thing I noticed was the overwhelming number of people. I felt like I was drowning in a sea of bodies. My heart was racing and I had to remind myself to breathe. I tried to be cool, calm and collected as I made my way to the first store. I don’t know why but I entered a clothing store, and as soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a salesperson. I tried to avoid eye contact, but it was too late. She approached me asking if I needed help with anything. I panicked. I didn't know what to say. I didn't want to seem rude, but I also didn't want to talk to anyone. So, I just muttered something about looking around and quickly made my escape to the next store.
The next store was a bit better. It was exactly what I wanted, a shoe store. The salesperson greeted me with a big smile and asked if I needed any help. My instinct was to say no, but I knew I needed guidance if I was going to make it out of there alive.
I explained my predicament, and the salesperson started bringing out all kinds of shoes for me to try on. Some were too big, some were too small, and some were just plain ugly. I started to panic, wondering if I would ever find a pair that I actually liked. But then, I saw them. The perfect pair of shoes, just sitting there on the shelf, waiting for me.
I tried them on, and they fit like a glove. I looked at myself in the mirror and felt a rush of excitement. I had done it! I had conquered my fear of in-person shopping and found the perfect shoes. As I walked to the checkout counter, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. As I walked to my car, I couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. Who knew that buying a pair of shoes could be such an adventure?
I learnt a huge lesson that day: as an introvert, going in person shopping can be daunting, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Sometimes, we just need to step out of our comfort zones and try something new.
But sometimes, venturing into the outside world is necessary, even for a die-hard online shopper like me. My teenage daughter is the main reason I have to make the dreaded trip to the town centre. She always seems to need something that can't be purchased online. I swear, shopping with her is like an Olympic sport. But I have to do it!
Food shopping is even worse. It is like a racing track and I'm determined to break my personal record of how fast I can get in and out of the grocery store. I make a list and try not to get distracted by the sweets aisle (which, let's be honest, is easier said than done). I am normally done in 15 minutes, including buying other crap I do not necessarily need. I grab what I needed and make a beeline for the checkout praying I won’t have the “luck” of facing the chatty checkout person whilst packing my groceries. Most of the times I do not even have time to think about what I am buying, let alone enjoy the experience. I normally go just before closing time so the supermarket is not as busy as daytime and I can race through the aisles.
After living so many years with this introverted mind, I can assure you there are ways for introverts to make the experience less stressful.
So, here's my personal guide to surviving in-person shopping as an introvert.
Pick the Right Time - timing is key. The last thing you want to do is walk into a store during peak hours, only to be bombarded by crowds of people, kids screaming, and long queues. So, choose the right time to visit. Early mornings on weekdays are usually less crowded, and you can enjoy a peaceful shopping experience. Most stores are less crowded during the early morning or late evening hours, so this may be the perfect time for introverts to shop. If possible, try to avoid shopping on weekends or during holidays when the stores are more crowded.
Shop Alone - shopping alone is the way to go. I mean, let's face it, shopping is a personal experience, and it's easier to make decisions when you're not constantly interrupted by your shopping partner's opinions. Plus, shopping alone gives you the chance to focus on what you need and avoid any unnecessary distractions.
Make a List - making a list of the things you need can help you stay focused and avoid any unnecessary browsing. It also helps you avoid impulse purchases that can leave you feeling regretful later on. So, grab a pen and paper, jot down what you need, and stick to it.
Dress Comfortably - wearing comfortable clothes and shoes can make your shopping experience a lot more enjoyable. You don't want to be dealing with blisters or sore feet while trying to find the perfect outfit. So, ditch the heels and tight clothing and opt for something comfortable and easy to move in.
Take Breaks - don't be afraid to take breaks. Shopping can be overwhelming, and it's okay to step back, take a breather, and recharge. Take a seat, have a snack, or even go for a quick walk outside to clear your mind. It's important to listen to your body and give yourself a break when needed.
Have a Plan B - have a plan B in case things don't go as planned. If you're not able to find what you're looking for, or the store is just too overwhelming, it's okay to walk away and try another day. You can always shop online, where you have more control over your shopping experience.
7. Bring your headphones - consider bringing headphones to listen to music or an audiobook. This can help drown out the noise of the store and allow introverts to focus on the task at hand. Additionally, try to stay focused on the end goal of the shopping trip - getting the necessary items and leaving the store.
In conclusion, going in-person shopping can be a daunting experience for introverts like myself. But with a little preparation, we can survive and even thrive in the real-life stores. So, put on your comfortable clothes, make a list, and remember to take breaks. And if all else fails, there's always online shopping - my personal favorite.
Happy shopping, fellow introverts!
And if that fails too, I am here to help!