Introversion and extroversion are commonly misunderstood. Oftentimes, people believe that in order to be considered an extrovert, they have to be a social butterfly who loves talking to anyone about anything. On the other hand, when people think about an introvert, they picture someone alone in a dimly lit room with a book, quick to reject any outside human contact. However, such is not the case.
Introversion and extroversion are personality dimensions/attitudes that are used to describe how people energize themselves.
Those who are introverts recharge their batteries by being by themselves, while those who are extroverts are energized by being around others.
For extroverts, it is draining to have too much alone time. Instead, these personality types thrive off of interactions with other people. Those who are extroverted tend to enjoy active involvement in events and social activities.
For introverted people, it is draining to be around others for too long. Instead, these personality types thrive off of solitude or interactions with a small group of people. Those who are introverted tend to be seen as reflective and reserved.
Want to know which you are? You can start by analyzing the types of situations that are energizing and/or draining to you. Do you feel refreshed after some alone time or do you feel a need to socialize? By contrast, do you feel energized after socializing with others and drained after having too much time alone? Remember that you are most likely not completely one or the other. It’s okay if being around others and being by yourself are both a little energizing and/or a little draining. Even the most social individuals need some time of solitude every once in a while. Likewise, those who may be more introverted will need some social interaction every now and then. As relational, limited beings, everyone needs some level of social interaction as well as some alone time; however, the amount of each likely depends on your unique personality.
Thanks for reading!
Shaye Hatfield Berry
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