I've recently learnt that I am more introvert than extrovert. I immediately thought that this meant I'm shy and inadequate at socialising and wasn't convinced this was me. However, this is not the definition of an introvert. I've been reading about the introvert / extrovert personality. It seems there is a common misconception about the introvert personality with many extroverts describing the personality as shy and antisocial. This is not quite true. The definition of extrovert / introvert in broad terms is that extroverts are energized by what goes on in the OUTER world and expend energy while introverts are energized by what goes on in the INNER world and conserve energy. Introverts do not need external stimulation which the extrovert craves.
3/4 people are extroverts and 1/3 people are introverts. That means there are many more extroverts than introverts and hence the misuconception of the introvert's personality.
There are a few interesting things to know about an introvert personality:
- Introvert does NOT mean shy and anti-social.
- Introverts tend to dislike small talk.They prefer meaningful conversations. Extraverts could see this as arrogance.
- Introverts like to socialise, but not in the same manner and frequency as extroverts. They love to socialise and have deep conversations, but socialising drains their energy.
- Introverts need time alone to recharge. They appreciate the offers of social get togethers but this takes their energy from them. Give them their space - they're not depressed - they just need and appreciate time alone to recharge their batteries.
This really makes sense to me. I've often said that I don't mind being alone and that I actually enjoy the time to myself. I struggle to realise the value of small talk, not that I can't do it, I just don't always get the point. I love to socialise, but prefer to be in situations where I can have a conversation with someone and not just be a number in the crowd. After spending time with people I do need time alone to recharge my batteries - to be alone with my own thoughts.
This doesn't make me shy or anti-social - just wired a bit differently!
