Try to simulate the phone call or text as best as possible. Avoid eye-contact, pace back and forth, or quickly let the individual you are on a very important call or need to finish an urgent text. If you are in the middle of an unwanted or awkward conversation, politely say that you need to take a call and step out.

Saying that you need to run and catch a train is a great and polite excuse to keep moving. Other excuses, like saying you are late for another appointment or have forgotten something at work are both broad and maintain a sense of urgency. Enlist the help of friends. If you happen to be in an obligatory social setting have a friend call or text you with information that needs immediate attention. Say that you have conflicting plans if you are invited to a social gathering.

Plug your headphones into your mobile phone or mp3 player and put on your favorite album. Download and listen to a new podcast or audiobook.

Stay home and watch a film, read, cook, or listen to music.

Type on your computer. Open an already existing document or email to make it appear as though you are deep into a train of thought. Find objects around your office to keep you busy. Filing documents or making copies are two simple ways to seem preoccupied. If you are addressed even though you appear to be busy, simply acknowledge their statement and politely excuse yourself to continue working. Talking or muttering to yourself while walking often signifies being deep in thought and will deter others from interrupting. Politely excuse yourself by saying that you have a lot of work to do or that you need to get back to work.

Say that you are very busy and do not feel like having a conversation. Statements like, “I’m sorry, I am just not in the mood to have a conversation right now,” or “I feel too preoccupied to have a conversation at the moment” are polite ways to excuse yourself from conversation. You may want to avoid talking to people if you have freshly broken up. You can limit your social media contact with your partner as much as possible. [4] X Research source Be aware that it may take longer to grieve and get over that person if you have the same social circle. So be gentle and compassionate with yourself. [5] X Research source You can make a joint effort with your ex to heal yourselves. Be mature and talk to them about the best way to do so. For example, you can avoid going to the parties where your ex is going.

Seek out tasks that might be possible individually. Ask your teacher or supervisor to see if it’s possible to work alone if group projects are assigned. Develop a routine during your breaks or lunch. Seek out the same cafe, go for a quick walk, or browse your favorite bookstore. Activities like yoga, running, or reading are all done individually, with minimal talking, and have great benefits!

Instead of approaching a supervisor, teacher, or colleague, send them an email. If introversion and the desire not to speak is common, noting that in an email might also help others maintain a considerate distance without creating any unwanted tension. Send a short text in lieu of speaking. Texts can be particularly effective in maintaining communication without seeming rude or distant. If you are receiving a phone call and you would prefer not to talk, let the call go to voicemail, reply via text message or email, and resume communication.

Slumping your shoulders and caving your chest give the appearance of being unwilling to speak with others. Avoid making eye contact. Crossing your arms and twirling your fingers can be a sign of preoccupation or nervousness. Position you feet away from others to indicate you are uninterested in conversation. [7] X Research source

Say that you need to finish a project or are late to meet a friend. A smile and wave can politely communicate your exit if a few people are already in conversation.

Making alterations to your schedule to arrive in places when they are least occupied will decrease the chance of talking with others. [9] X Research source Avoid crowds or groups of others already in conversation by walking quickly by them or in an opposite direction.