How do you manage offices as a quiet person?

[lemontreeeverystreet]

I just wanted to find out how others who might be in the same situation cope..

I'm a quiet person - I wouldn't say shy but I wouldn't be the voice you would hear at work say...

I work in an open plan office and there are a few people who like to chat to each - little gatherings during the day etc...or chat across desks.

I really want to join in and chat but usually I just listen, especially if one is telling a long story. I have no issue with people being louder than me or anything like that - I just feel like I have a bit of a default on my personality where it's like why can't I join in.
I'm fine one on one - and as I've got older I seek out the people I like to chat to one on one..usually we laugh away about something..

Is this normal?
I'm mid 40's

It takes me a long time to feel settled into an office but I can chat once I'm comfortable.

A much more socially accomplished colleague taught me a lesson today actually. Someone mentioned something they'd done and I said, "that sounds fun". Colleague said "what was that like? " It really made me see the difference in us and I shall try and use it next time.