You might have heard of introversion and extroversion in various contexts. Perhaps you even have taken a personality test at some point in your life that indicated, you are an introvert. But what does it mean, in fact, to be an Introvert?
In her awesome book, "Quiet Impact: How to Be a Successful Introvert," Sylvia Loehken breaks down the key traits that typically define introverts and extroverts, helping us understand how they approach life differently.
Before you check these traits, take the test on Sylvia's website to find out whether you possess more of the introverted, extroverted or ambivert (intermediate zone) traits.
Am I an Introvert?
Introversion is a personality trait.
Introversion is a personality trait characterised by a preference for quiet, low-stimulation environments and a focus on internal thoughts and feelings rather than external social interactions. Unlike extroverts, who gain energy from being around others, introverts often recharge by spending time alone or in small, meaningful gatherings.
The core of introversion is how ones energy is being gained and drained. While a typical extrovert gains energy from interactions, e.g. after a long and draining day they prefer to meet up with friends or play football with their team, and introvert is different: they prefer to withdraw from social settings and recharge alone, in a low stimulus environment. Too much stimuli and social interactions drain introverts. This does not mean that extroverts do not need occasional retreat or quiet moments. However, for introverts, being alone is a necessity in order to recharge. If they are not provided with peace and the opportunity to rest, they become irritable, exhausted or cranky.
It is important to emphasize that there is no right or wrong here. Both introversion and extroversion is perfectly OK, it only underlines the preferences an individual has and how they interact with the world around them. It is a good idea to look at this more as a continuum, rather than a one-or-the-other trait. Every person possesses both introverted and extroverted traits. Additionally, everyone is born with a certain range of flexibility, a kind of comfort zone within the continuum. Every point of the continuum is healthy, only the extremes can cause problems. Nevertheless, we are born with a certain tendency towards introversion or extroversion.
Introversion and extroversion is also situation-based: depending on the circumstances, the role we play, the expectations of others we have the ability to switch between our inward or outward orientation. In fact to use that flexibility we have on the continuum to match our behaviour to the situation for the best outcomes. Issues may occur if we need to constantly stretch beyond our comfort zone in the continuum and push ourselves to act as a person, that is not genuine and not in line with our preferences.
It is also culture that defines our adaptability to introversion and extroversion. While the Western world is more appreciative of the extroverted tendencies, there are other cultures (Japan, Scandinavian countries) that praise introversion, quietness and solitude.
Typical Introvert Strengths
Now that we understand that Introversion is about our preference for a quiet and low stimulus environment, and our preference to look rather inward and spend time alone, it is good to explore what are the typical strengths, usual skills introverts possess. These traits often add value in many ways: the way we interact with our family, partner and friends, our colleagues; they way we absorb and process the world around us; the way we think and approach problems; the attitudes we maintain about our interactions and goals. They are great skills, that when used well, set us up for success and allow us to pursue our full potential.
How about Extroverts?
On contrary, Extroverts thrive in social situations, are generally more outgoing, and excel in roles that require quick decision-making, teamwork, and public speaking. They are energized by interaction and often bring enthusiasm and dynamism to their work.In conclusion, neither introverted nor extroverted traits are inherently better or worse than the other. Each set of characteristics offers unique strengths that can be leveraged in different ways. The key is to embrace and understand your own authentic approach to life. The more aware you are of your natural inclinations and strengths, the better you can utilize them to reach your full potential.
If you're interested in discovering more about your introverted strengths and how to make the most of them, consider embarking on a coaching journey with me.
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Reference:
Löhken, S. (2013). Quiet impact: How to be a successful introvert. John Wiley & Sons.