I'm an introvert too, so I know where you're coming from ^^ We're most comfortable in the privacy of our
own home, and my former Spanish teacher (whom I deeply respect) use to say that whoever doesn't feel the need to
spend some time on their own isn't normal ^^" That was in response to a former classmate saying she loved to
be surrounded by people at all times. She's an outgoing girl much like you described your friends to be, and
couldn't really picture not having human contact for even a few hours.
Now, you're in a pickle because introverts may be able to understand how extroverts think, but it doesn't
always work the other way around (unless they're also gifted with empathy). Avoiding phone calls is perfectly
normal IMO, if they're not urgent matters; I sometimes put mine on silent mode because I either want to do
something without being interrupted or just don't feel like dealing with other people. I'm also not a fan of
going out in large groups, especially since they're almost always noisy and I don't like being too noisy in
public (as in, "I can hear you from across the very busy street" noisy >_> )
Some excuses (make sure to say them like you really mean it and there's no room for
negotiation):
- "Sorry, I don't feel like going out today." (most honest answer)
- "My parents need help with chores around the house. / I have to help out my mom/dad/relative with
something."
- "Sorry, but I really can't." (if they press further, just be adamant and say you can't come;
they'll most likely understand you don't feel like going out)
- "I'm not feeling too great, I'll have to sit this one out." (like Alenas and Firefly suggested
^^)
- "I have an appointment at the dentist's/doctor's."
- "Sorry, I'm too tired, I can't even get out of bed without falling over."
And, as a last resort, "Urgh, I'm on my period and having AWFUL cramps!". This won't lead to many
questions, and if some of your friends are guys, going into details will most likely have them saying "Nah, just
let her stay home" in no time! The only downside is that you can't use this excuse too often, for biological
reasons ^^"
Alternatively, grab whomever of your friends you're closer to and explain the situation to them. They'll have
your back when the others insist to hang out. Being forced to be social is obviously putting a mental and physical
strain on you (tummy ache), so the sooner you tell them about your dilemma, the closer you are to finding a possible
solution for both you and them :)
Also, try to find out where you're most comfortable going out and suggest you go there once in a while. If a
bar/restaurant is too noisy/stifling, go for a walk in the park. If that's too boring, go see a movie. If that's too boring as well, go to an event (concert, festival, fair
etc.).
Phew, that was much longer than I expected! o.o Let us know how it turns out for you~