The life of a social butterfly is both exhilarating and demanding. You connect with different personalities, enjoy one party after another, and charm your way into people’s hearts. But being a people person also has its challenges. Can you imagine being busy 24/7? Here, learn to strike a balance so you can be your best sociable self but still have enough time for your needs.
What Makes a Social Butterfly?
In an interview with Well+Good, social-personality psychologist and Michigan State University associate professor William Chopik defines a social butterfly as someone who’s socially skilled, extroverted, and well-liked by others.
Yes, they’re the life of the party and usually the class president and leader of the band. Additionally, every people-loving individual possesses these traits:
- You’re easily the most talkative in a group.
- You’re charming.
- You go with the flow.
- People look for you.
- You have multiple social circles.
- Meeting new people excites you.
How to Thrive as a Social Butterfly
Some people are simply born with natural social skills. But for those who aren’t as lucky, all hope is not lost. In the book Shyness: A Bold New Approach, coauthor Bernardo Carducci emphasised that you can teach yourself to become a social butterfly. You just need to practice and get used to basking in the spotlight.
Here are some tips to help you unleash that potential. If you’re already there, consider these as reminders to continue thriving and socialising with more purpose.
- Develop a genuine interest in people.
- Find ways to make yourself interesting.
- Master the art of conversation.
- Have good social graces.
- Practise acts of kindness.
Self-Care Essentials for Social Butterflies
As the saying goes, you can never pour from an empty cup. So, if you want to find success as a social butterfly, you also need to carve out time for yourself and recharge. Turn to these self-care tips (that don’t feel like solitary confinement) so you can conquer more busy days ahead.
1. Start your day with yourself.
Even with a full schedule ahead, start your day by dedicating quiet moments to yourself. You want to savour that peace before things get crazy! Create a cosy sanctuary where you can meditate, journal, or just be present. Practising self-care acts first thing in the morning can help you centre yourself and take on the day with more gusto.
2. Invest in time management tools.
How does your weekly calendar look? It’s likely packed with meetings and events, leaving no room to breathe. Do you ever stop, stare, and wonder if you’ll make it through? To stay on top of your commitments, use a time management tool that syncs across all your devices. See, it helps to ask for help – even from non-living objects! Soon, you’ll be a picture of punctuality, avoiding all unnecessary blockers like chatting with anyone and everyone within a certain radius.
3. Don’t be a “yes person.”
You might be tempted to give an automatic yes to every invite that comes your way. After all, social butterflies can’t resist the idea of hanging out with their gang and meeting new people. But you must be more intentional with your RSVPs and allow yourself the luxury of some R&R.
Instead of jumping the gun, take some time to consider the invitation. Will the event add value to your life in a way that you need? Or will it put you down and leave you in a state of self-pity?
4. Take a break from social media.
In an era of perpetual notifications and constant connectivity, sometimes, you just need to tune out. While disconnecting can lead to major FOMO, scheduling regular screentime detox will allow you to focus on yourself. Start a book you’ve been meaning to read. Venture outside and live life IRL! Leave your phone behind and step into a brave new wireless world.
5. Get your body moving.
Energise your social spirit by getting a move on. Exercise is beneficial for everyone, but it’s especially important for a social butterfly with higher energy levels. Don’t fancy a solo workout on the treadmill? Why not sign up for dance classes and make new friends? Or, if you prefer low-impact movement, have a group yoga session with your gal pals and see who’ll last the longest (without talking).
6. Have a pre-party primp session.
Whether you’re getting ready for a wedding or a night out, you should indulge in self-love rituals before heading out. Take a nice long bath and play your me-time playlist on full blast. Days before the event, treat yourself to a shopping spree so you can dress to impress. Why not call in your trusted friends and have them in on the fun?
7. Work on your self-improvement goals.
It’s never too late to pick up a new hobby, learn a foreign language, or improve the way you walk. In fact, these can help you succeed further as a social butterfly. You can even consider finding a mentor or going to therapy for better self-awareness. Identify areas of improvement and do what you need to do for yourself!
Dealing with bacne for too long? Block an entire afternoon and visit a dermatologist. Stuck with dry, frizzy hair? Consult a hair expert and try a new ‘do that works for you. Bothered by your overcrowded or crooked teeth? Say yes to a smile makeover with the help of ClearCorrect dental aligners. Remember: you’re doing these for you. It’s time you make yourself your priority.
For a social butterfly, the concept of self-care may be a bit of a drag. But taking time for yourself is never in vain. Let your social battery dictate your pace; don’t judge yourself for wanting to slow down. Learn to say no! Only when you prioritise your needs can you be the best version of yourself and give more to others.
References:
Friendships start better with a smile. (2015, May 15). ScienceDaily.
Miller, K., & Miller, K. (2021, August 24). How To Know If You’re a Social Butterfly, According to Psychologists. Well+Good.
Shyness: A Bold New Approach. (n.d.). Google Books.
The International Academic Forum. (2023, June 30). Social Butterflies and Academic Achievement – The International Academic Forum (IAFOR).
