Introvert or Extrovert?

Most likely you have been asked "Are you an introvert or an extrovert?" for school or perhaps your workplace for an odd interview. But have you actually thought it through and connected the dots to see how much of an extrovert or introvert you are?

If you answered no, let's find out together! If yes, time to reflect on yourself again for the fun of it!

Introvert (I) or Extroverted (E)

The most common question we get to know other people. It isn't a question of "loud vs quiet" or "are you a hermit or do you have 80 friends". Rather it is all about your mental energy and how it works.

Extroverts tend to speak more, even if it's awkward or perhaps unwanted by some talking is their comfort. They prefer being in crowds of people, seeing colourful faces and familiar faces. When exhausted their way of getting back into their personal groove is to partake in a social event. A friend's party, going to a venue, a new restaurant... These places are likely ideal for a weekend full of excitement and love.

Not at all an endurance test, rather a testimony for their love of good company.

But did you know some extroverts aren't necessarily social? Perhaps a day at the beach with friends doesn't recharge their battery.

There are some other factors other than socialization that make a person extroverted. For example, the way they think.

Extroverts are witty and can think on their feet. Surprisingly manageable solutions are within reach and don't require that much time. From comedians to nurses to waiters in busy restaurants. One thing in common they all have is that they display extroverted traits in a fast-paced environment. No time for distractions when their focus is busy on multi-tasking.

When speaking extroverts try to get their thoughts in first. They tend to say the first and sometimes the second thing on their minds. In their social groups others view them as louder, charismatic in their own way, perhaps are the "stand up friend" of the group.

A lot of extroverts tend to think of their counterparts as hermits. Perhaps ominous, too quiet, shy, and even socially anxious. It is easy to apply those traits to an introvert, but don't be too quick to judge.

Introverts are more of the listening type, even if seen as "unwilling" or "distant" most likely they're testing the waters of a new environment. They love independence and working solo with anything they can handle on their own. When exhausted they regain their energy by limiting their social interactions on breaks. They only host small, manageable get togethers when having left-over energy. Indeed, their idealistic weekend of reflecting and having time for their personal hobbies.

Perhaps it sounds lonely, but I can assure that their weeks were busy so give the introverts a break!

Being socially introverted is one thing, but there are other factors that makes an introvert.

Introverts tend to think first before they go into action. They are aware of their surroundings and take their time taking in the more moderately-paced work environments. Graphic designers, writers, therapists shine with having multiple rough drafts and ideas before putting them into fruition. Step by step their process is long but when put into action the results can be outstanding when effort is present.

When speaking they listen first and tend to be aware of the moods of others and may notice the slightest differences. In friend groups they're the unexpectedly passionate, prefer one on one with people they know, and tell the funniest jokes even if they go unnoticed.

A lot of introverts loathe the idea of the pushy extroverts. They sometimes label some extroverts as too loud, unaware, and socially obnoxious. Again, it is easy to apply those adjectives to an extrovert, but once again don't be quick to judge.

Here's a short summary of the main traits of introverts and extroverts:

(E) Extroverted traits:

- Like socializing in larger groups

- New experiences are good

- Energy comes from fun events

- Think on their feet

- Fast-paced work ethic

- May be easily distracted

- Talk first, think later

- More likely to be vocal

(I) Introverted traits:

- Like socializing in smaller groups

- Familiarity is great

- Energy comes from alone time

- Ponder on ideas first

- Moderate-paced work ethic

- Stay focused

- Think first, talk later

- Less likely to be vocal

Note that extroverts can have introverted traits and vice-versa. If you feel as if you're both here are two pieces of advice. 1)You can say that you are socially an ambivert, but if you're finding out for a personality test sort of thing (briggs-myer 16 personality test) please don't call yourself "AXXX" instead of "EXXX" or "IXXX". 2. If you want an even more in depth introverted or extroverted analysis, I suggest taking an authentic personality tests (specifically the ones that factor in "cognitive functions", you'll thank me later).