Embrace those moments and trust that God may be working in someone’s heart by giving them the space to speak up.
It may be uncomfortable, but creating a welcoming and inclusive space for introverts is worth it.
4. Allow Time for One-on-One Connections.
Have you ever stepped into a hot bath without letting the water run first? It’s not the most pleasant experience, right? But did you know that if you get in while the water is still flowing, your body has time to adjust to the heat, and it becomes a whole different story, even if the water is hotter than before?
The same can be true for introverts in small group meetings.
Jumping right in can feel overwhelming and uncomfortable, but taking some time to adjust and connect one-on-one can make all the difference.
I didn’t fully appreciate this until the pandemic hit and our small group meetings were shifted to Zoom.
While grateful for the continued connection, I realized how much I missed those pre- and post-meeting moments. In these micro-transactions, friendships are built, trust is established, and community is formed—all of which can become the foundation for more profound moments of sharing in a larger group setting.
So, let’s ensure we intentionally create those one-on-one moments for introverts in our small groups. It’s not just about making them feel included. It’s about building a robust, connected community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
Conclusion
When it comes to building small groups, don’t forget about introverts! Fear can often be a barrier to friendship.
By intentionally creating an environment that welcomes and values their unique perspectives, we can break down the barriers that might keep them from joining.
Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, we all desire to feel seen and heard in our community. So, let’s ensure our small groups reflect that and create a space where everyone can thrive together.
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
