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Do you ever become anxious at the thought of walking into a party? Are you the friend who’s favorite go to line when invited out is, “I’ll see.” Do you like the idea of socializing with people, but find it exhausting? It looks like you may just be an introvert. While it may seem like an odd personality to have, more and more people are realizing their introverted ways and learning how common it really is.
First, let’s define the actual word, “introvert.” According to most dictionaries, it means a shy, reticent person or a person who is energized by spending time alone. Introverts tend to stay “in”-side of themselves instead of being outward with feelings and emotions towards other people. Introversion, which is basically the act of being an introvert, is becoming more and more common as people try to figure out and understand their own personality.
When it comes to looking at personality traits of an introvert, it can be quite easy to notice or identify. Introverts are quiet, reserved, observant, and deep thinkers. They can be very social, but only around small groups and those that they know. You will never see an introvert trying to be the life of the party…even if it’s their own party. For example, an introvert can be having the best time of their life by sitting on the couch, texting one person versus being in a crowded club.
Since the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of an introvert is shyness, many feel that introverts are not friendly. This is definitely not the case. Many introverts actually make the best kind of friends. They are great listeners and look at every aspect of a situation before giving advice. Because they tend to keep their emotions under wraps, introverts also can be unbiased when giving advice. Who wouldn’t want that as a friend?
Another misconception about those who are introverted is that they are lonely or unhappy. This is definitely false. Introverts love being by themselves. It is something that they feed off of. Being around a group of people, in a large setting, pretty much drains the mental energy of an introvert. To replenish this energy, they have to spend time alone, by themselves. This is one of the main ways you can distinguish an introvert from just another shy person. A shy person is scared to be around others and doesn’t like to be alone. An introvert is the complete opposite. They are most content when they are isolated.
There are also a few other attributes to consider before determining if you are an introvert or not. One is enjoying having only a few friends around or in your life. This goes back to being mentally drained by large groups of people. As an introvert, you are okay with having a small circle of friends. You would rather you know everything about Molly and Tim versus barely knowing anything about Suzy, Michael, James, Samantha…you get the point. Having a smaller, close-knit circle ensures that an introvert has deeper connections with those people. This is something that introverts prefer over a large quantity of meaningless friendships.
Another quality would be being reserved. This is another reason why introverts love having small groups of friends or people around them. Many introverts do not like to divulge too much information about themselves randomly. Small talk is a huge no-no in their mind. If you have ever caught yourself wondering why the woman next to you in the store is trying to spark a conversation, you just might be an introvert.
Now, I am sure you are wondering what kind of fun can an introvert have? I mean, what can they possibly like to do if they want to always be alone and thrive on silence? The answer is quite simple. Introverts enjoy doing activities that don’t cause too much of a fuss. Many introverts pick small hobbies that they can partake in alone, such as drawing or writing. Finding activities that will allow them to exit away from reality, like staying in and watching a movie or listening to music. These are the type of activities that excite introverts. Another great way to try to engage with an introvert is by having a meaningful discussion or debate about any subject. Introverts are deep thinkers. They like to think about how the world works around them. Engaging in an intimate conversation is the best way to fully keep an introvert’s attention.
Statistics show that more than half of the people in society deal with introversion in some sort of way. Whether it is himself or herself, a friend, a partner, or even a child, introversion is something that is becoming more of the norm. Instead of always wondering about that quiet little girl in your classroom, people are starting to understand the ins and outs of introversion and learning how to deal with them effectively. Being an introvert does not mean that you are an outcast.
We’re Not Unfriendly!
It doesn’t mean that you are unfriendly or can’t get along with other people. This simply means that your energy level becomes depleted when being involved in large, social environments. A few days with a nice book and a great album and you will be replenished and back to your happy self. Introversion should be looked at as something positive and not negative. There is nothing wrong with not wanting attention on you at all times.
So, if you are someone who’d rather sit in the middle of your living room, alone, with a huge crossword puzzle instead of being in a celebrity filled room partying all night…you just may be an introvert! Now that you know you are an introvert, learn why it’s such a great thing!