Deciding whether you are an introvert or extrovert can be a real challenge if you have never taken time to consider these two personality traits closely. While an extrovert feels energized when around people, an introvert will feel too crowded when in the company of more than two people. Since an introvert appears to shy away from social gatherings, it is easy to assume that there is something wrong with them. As an extrovert, the first step to understanding an introvert is to understand the reason for their social preferences and what led them there. The following aspects are a mirror into the life of an introvert which every extrovert should be aware of;
Introverts are Not Shy or Anti-Social
Ask anyone on the streets about what it means to be an introvert and this is probably the first thing they say. While it might appear so, this is only a misconception. An introvert would rather stay home than go out with friends, something that an extrovert would not do. The difference is the nature of brain activity between these two personality types; an introvert uses most of the front brain lobe to think and analyze complete situations while an extrovert uses the back lobe that processes external sensors. There are extroverts who are shy and anti-social, just that their personality masks that.
Introverts Dislike Small Talk
Communication is an important aspect of all types of interactions and for extroverts, it is perfectly normal to engage in small talk before talking about the important stuff. That is not the same way an introvert is wired; they desire to have meaningful relationships with people who they can have deep conversations with. If an introvert starts to speak about something they love, they will want to do it at a level that sparks mental stimulation. Unless they are speaking to someone they just met, most introverts consider small talk to be a waste of time. Just because an introvert will not engage in small talk as you wait for the bus together, does not mean they are arrogant.
Introverts Enjoy Socialization
This definitely sounds contradictory but the truth of it lies in the manner in which it is done. An introvert might naturally speak less but if their thinking is stimulated, they will want to connect with the person they are speaking to. If this connection is established, it is only a matter of time before an introvert takes over the spotlight at a party, albeit shortly.
Introverts Need Regular Episodes of Alone Time to Recharge
This will often happen after a mentally stimulating conversation and while it may mean missing out on an opportunity to form relationships, it is an important aspect of being an introvert. Instead of feeling offended that an introvert declined your offer to attend two social events in a row, understand that they need time alone to make up for the depleted energy reserves.
Introverts Do Not Like Interruptions
It does not matter how important something is to you when you want to speak to an introvert, find a time when they are free of thinking, writing, reading or simply gazing into space. Only an introvert understands the instant rage and turmoil that burns within them when the doorbell rings, the phone rings or someone asks a question while they are in the middle of ‘something’.
