Why Introverts Are Sensitive to Noise and 5 Ways to Help Block it Out

Introverts are usually more sensitive to noise than extroverts. This sensitivity can make it difficult for them to focus when there’s background noise. It can also leave them feeling overstimulated after an outing to the store.

In the article below, you’ll learn about some of the reasons why introverts are more sensitive to noise. We’ll also provide you with five great ways to block out excess noise, allowing you to enjoy peace and quiet.

Noise is Distracting

Introverts are often more sensitive to noise because they’re more easily distracted than extroverts. One study found that it takes significantly less noise to distract an introvert than an extrovert. It takes a lot of effort for introverts to get into a rhythm with work, so even the quietest noises can disrupt their focus.

This can be extraordinarily frustrating for an introvert, since many work environments require them to work with others. While they would prefer to work in complete silence, noise is an unavoidable part of working with others.

These distractions can make them extremely sensitive to sounds around them. We talked to one introvert who shared that she has trouble working at home when her husband is in the next room taking work calls. While they do everything to reduce noise between rooms, her husband’s boss has a loud voice that carries during work calls.

Noise Impacts Mood

Introverts are particularly susceptible to mood changes because of noise in their environment. In one study by Bishop’s University in Quebec, scientists studied the effect of different sounds on both introverts and extroverts.

They measured the impact on their arousal, mood, and cognitive performance. While both introverts and extroverts were impacted by noise and music, the results were even more dramatic in introverts. The study found that introverts were more anxious when listening to stimulating music.

The study also found that introverts were more aggressive than extroverts when they were exposed to agitating sounds. While extroverts seem to have a higher tolerance for annoying noises, introverts are significantly upset by agitating sounds in their environment.

That means it doesn’t take as much sound to significantly impact an introvert’s mood. Even when they are in a good mood, an agitating sound can derail their concentration. We talked to one introvert who absolutely despises the sound of whistling. When her coworker whistled, she was almost instantly in a bad mood from the agitating sound.

Noise Startles Introverts

Introverts are more likely to be startled by loud sounds. Research has even showed this effect on introverts in their infant years. In Susan Cain’s book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, the author shares her findings about the sensitivity of introverts during infancy.

Scientists tested the reactivity of a group of babies to certain sounds (like balloons popping and other loud stimulation). When the children grew up and became teenagers, scientists brought them back for another round of tests.

The children who were “high-reactive” (meaning they had bigger reactions to the stimuli) were significantly more likely to be introverts.

The same sensitivity can be found in introverted adults. Introverted adults are more sensitive to loud sounds in their environment. It isn’t just that they’re more particular about their environments, but that they are truly experiencing heightened stimulation from things extroverts might be able to tune out.

We talked to one introvert who shared about her experiences working at a pizza parlor. Her coworkers often teased her about how easily startled she was by sounds they were able to mostly tune out. Even relatively quiet sounds could startle her and break her distraction, especially if she was extremely focused on a task.

This is fairly common in introverts, even as they go into adulthood. Even if a sound isn’t loud enough to startle them, most sounds offer enough stimulation to wrench them away from whatever they were thinking about.

Noise Drains Energy

Extroverts get energy from social interactions, while introverts use energy on them. A lot of noise comes from other people, something that can be particularly draining for an introvert. Even if the conversations are happening around them instead of with them, the draining effect is the same.

Introverts are almost always paying attention to the conversations happening around them. If they work or live in an environment where conversations are happening constantly, they may feel even more exhausted.

We talked to an introvert who shared about her experience going to college. Her first semester, she was overwhelmed by the non-stop conversations happening in the dorms. Even the library was filled with people having conversations, although those occurred at a more muted volume.

Eventually she had to find a completely quiet place where she could study. Most nights she’d go into an abandoned classroom on the top floor of one of the buildings. It was far enough away that she didn’t have to use precious energy on listening to conversations between her peers.

Introverts are More Sensitive

An introvert’s sensitivity to noise isn’t just about them disliking background noise. In the documentary, Sensitive: The Untold Story, researchers take a closer look at highly sensitive people (HSPs). Between 15% and 20% of the population qualifies as highly sensitive.

70% of HSPs are introverts. They physiologically process stimulation differently than others. They are often more aware of things in their environment, including sounds. Highly sensitive people often have to find ways to cope with the overwhelming stimulation around them.

Since introverts are more likely to be HSPs than extroverts, that means they are more likely to become overstimulated by sounds in their environment. In essence, sounds seem louder to introverts because of their increased sensitivity.

Because of their increased sensitivity, introverts will often seek out places where they can enjoy peace and quiet. Many introverts enjoy spending time in nature because it gives them the quiet they cannot find in typical urban settings. We have an entire article about reasons why introverts love hiking. The quiet setting is one of the most significant reasons many introverts enjoy the hobby.

5 Ways to Help Block Out Extra Noise

There are five ways introverts can block out extra noise. By blocking out background noise, introverts are better able to maintain concentration (regardless of their surroundings).

1. Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Noise cancelling earbuds are a great way for introverts to reduce the amount of noise they hear, no matter where they are. Since earbuds are small and portable, introverts can use them to block out noise while traveling or working in shared spaces.

The Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds are the most effective noise cancelling earbuds. They use Bluetooth to connect to your audio of choice. These earbuds offer eleven different levels of active noise cancelling, allowing you to adjust to your changing surroundings.

The earbuds use a comfortable design so you can wear them all day long. They even include three different eartip sizes to let you choose the ones that fit your ears best.

They hold about 20 hours of non-stop music with each charge, which means you can use them all day at work or during long days of travel without worrying about them running out of battery.

2. White Noise Machine

If you’re trying to block out noise in a certain space (like your office), a white noise machine can help you achieve your goal. White noise machines work by providing a low, soothing sound to help you block out sounds from outside the room.

The HoMedics White Noise Sound Machine comes with six soothing sound settings. You can choose between thunder, ocean, summer night, rain, brook, and white noise settings. Some introverts don’t like the regular white noise setting, but find the ambient sounds of nature more soothing.

While white noise machines are ideal for your permanent work space, this white noise machine is small enough for you to take with you when you travel. If your work requires regular travel, you can set up a noise-free zone in your hotel room with the help of this white noise machine.

If noise makes it hard for you to sleep, the white noise machine can be used to help lull you to sleep. The HoMedics White Noise Sound Machine has an auto-off sleep timer. You can have it turn off after 15, 30, or 60 minutes.

3. Ear Plugs

Ear plugs can help you block out loud sounds while you work, travel, or sleep. Instead of reducing sound and replacing it with audio like music, ear plugs work by dampening nearby sounds. If you’re an introvert who needs complete silence to work, ear plugs can help you move closer to your ideal work environment.

The Flents Ear Plugs for Sleeping, Snoring, Loud Noise, Traveling, Concerts, Construction, & Studying are simple ear plugs that comfortably fit into your ears. The foam plugs taper, allowing you to get a custom and secure fit.

They are latex free and have a 33 decibel noise reduction rate, allowing you to drown out a significant amount of noise.

4. Fan

Fans block out noise the same way white noise machines do: by providing enough ambient sound to drown out other background noise. Many introverts run fans constantly to enjoy the reduced pressure from a noisy environment.

The Honeywell HT-900 TurboForce Air Circulator Fan is a small, but powerful fan. It comes in either black or white. Because it’s so small, it can fit on your desk or in the corner of your space. The fan has a pivoting head that you can direct in any direction.

While the fan can sit on its own, it also has a wall mount you can use to attach it in the ideal spot. This powerful fan is great for circulating air and keeping your space cool. Fans are a great way to block out extra noise, especially during the warmer months. Best of all, others may not even realize you’re using the fan to block noise, so you won’t risk offending anyone!

5. Door Seal

Door seals are another great option for sound-proofing a particular space. They’re particularly effective when the noise is coming from beyond your office door. They can also help you block out noise from neighboring rooms in your home or dorm, since they block out external noises.

The MAXTID Under Door Draft Blocker is a great way to block out noise from getting into your space. It can also effectively reduce drafts, light, and smells from seeping into your space. During colder months, it can help you reduce your energy costs by keeping the warmth in and the cold weather out.

Door seals are easy to pop into place. Simply slide the door seal under your door. It will settle into place and move with your door when you open and close it.

Conclusion

There are many reasons why introverts are more sensitive to noise than extroverts. They are often more easily distracted, so any unwanted noise can break their concentration. Noise from people talking takes up their energy, since social interactions drain them.

Introverts are also a lot more likely to be sensitive people, so all stimulation can leave them feeling overstimulated more quickly than their extroverted counterparts.

Fortunately, there are lot of great ways to block out unwanted noise. Introverts can create a safe and quiet environment by combining noise cancelling earbuds, white noise machines, ear plugs, fans, and door seals. Using a combination of these methods can help introverts create the quiet safe haven they need.