Fellow introverts, let’s be honest: We don’t see ourselves represented in film and TV as much as our more extroverted pals. The go-getters and the socializers of the world make great protagonists in adventure-based stories, and we’re definitely not saying they don’t deserve their place in the sun. But introverts deserve a little attention too, and luckily Disney movies have provided a solid selection of introspective individuals.
Best of all, once grouped together, these Disney introverts can offer some guidance on one of our most troublesome problems: escaping a get-together full of extroverts, without feeling like you’re sucking the life out of a party. Here’s a guide to leaving parties early, as told by Disney introverts.
1. Greet the host as soon as you can.
You made the effort to get out of the house, so you definitely want credit for expending your limited resources for mingling. Track down the host and thank them for their hospitality. That way, when the magic of the night is finally up, you won’t be scrambling (read: wasting precious alone time) to talk to them for the first time.
2. Have an iron-clad excuse for why you have to leave.
You may not have to take 101 dogs out, but you should definitely come up with something that no one can argue against. People will want you at the party, so they’ll be looking for any flaw in your logic for departure. Stand firm in your end time, and you won’t get stuck staying later than you planned.
3. Don’t totally freeze people out when you arrive.
The key to leaving a party early is enjoying yourself while you’re there (or at least making it seem like it). It doesn’t really matter how long you stay—as long as you’re getting quality conversation or activity time during your stay.
4. Establish a code word for a smooth departure.
If your night is tied to another introvert (whether you arrived together or not), come up with a code word or signal that means you’re ready to go. That way, when one of you reaches their limit, you can back each other up while you head out.
5. If you go to the party with an extrovert, let them loose.
Make sure to have a conversation beforehand, but don’t make an extrovert leave when you’re ready. Chances are they’ll flock to others in the party, and they’ll want to stay. Come up with transportation plans for both of your needs ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to separate.
6. If the party is small, try not to ghost people when you finally head out.
Many people would dispute this one, but we’d argue it’s more polite to say a clear goodbye to—at least—the hosts of a party, than just vanishing. If you’ve followed this guide up to this point, you’ve already established you’re leaving early, so you should feel no shame that you need to go.
7. If the party is larger, feel free to slip away unnoticed.
While all the social butterflies are fluttering their wings, make a beeline for the path of least resistance. Even if people notice you’re gone after this disappearing act, you’ve already let them know that you’d be heading out early. Now it’s time for the absolute best part of a night out …
8. Return home as quick as possible and get cozy.
You did it! You’ve successfully escaped what was surely a very fun party, and now you’re tucked in for some “me” time. And you didn’t even need to wish upon a star.
Most importantly, be yourself and enjoy your night! Have any other Disney characters given you tips on how to ditch a party, in style? Let us know in the comments!
