All my life I have been described as shy and quiet, but just recently I discovered I'm actually an introvert. So you might wonder, what exactly is an introvert? Contrary to popular belief, being an introvert has very little to do with being shy. An introvert is someone who energizes by being alone and whose energy can often be drained when being among a large crowd. As physiologist Carl Jung described introverts, "a person whose motives and actions are directed inward", meaning they are typically more reserved or reflective.
Sounds like you?
Coming from an introvert person, here are 10 signs you might be an introvert yourself.
Sounds like you?
Coming from an introvert person, here are 10 signs you might be an introvert yourself.
- Large crowds get stressful
Too much noise, too many people, too much going on? No thank you. You might realize that overstimulating environments will actually drain your energy. Even when you're out with friends having a great time; it can get overwhelming after a while. - You need to re-charge batteries after going out
Have you ever gone to a party and had to step outside for 5-10 minutes just to be by yourself? As stated above, too much commotion will drain your energy, so you'll usually need to be left alone to re-charge your energy in a quieter environment. - You're hobbies are more personal than social
Do you prefer staying in and reading a book, than going out to that party? Yup! As an introvert, your idea of a good time is working on your hobbies and interests, alone. Writing at your favorite coffee shop or reading a good book in bed sounds like a lovely Friday night. - You're not an open book
You have friends, but it's taken quite a while for you to open up a bit and even longer to start trusting them. Trusting someone is a big deal, but when you find those special humans, you're the most loyal person ever. Introverts also make great listeners. - You have a close group of
The old saying, "opposites attract" turns out to be quite true. Your close group are friends are those that can get you out of your shell every once and again, those who you are comfortable with, and those who understand you, even when you just want to be left alone. We all need a little balance in life and your extrovert friends provide the perfect amount.
friends (usually extroverts) - You're a planner
You plan everything. If a friend invites you someplace next Friday, you'll be thinking about it the whole week. Literally, planning and thinking about every last detail. It can get exhausting but that's how your mind works. - You enjoy solitude
There's a difference between being alone and being lonely. Introverts enjoy time spent alone. That's how we re-charge our energy. It's not that you don't like people, it's just that you like being alone with your thoughts, in your world. You don't need constant social activity because you don't get bored by yourself. - Networking is not as fun or exciting for you
Talking to 500 people is less intimidating than the small-talk that follows after. Introverts avoid small talk; again, not because we don't like people but simply because we don't find it stimulating. You're not usually the one to start up a conversation, but you can keep one going if someone starts talking to you about something intriguing enough.
- You are often called wise
I don't mean this is a conceited way, but as an introvert you probably always think before you speak. You gather facts, observe detail and take in all the information before speaking which can make you seem wise and even more mature for your age.
Some people might find it hard to understand introverts. Some may confuse it with shyness or even rudeness, but it's simply that spending too much time socializing will leave us drained. That's why most introverts are writers and/or artists.
The key is to get to know yourself and feel comfortable with your personality, after all that's what makes you who you are!
So, did any of these signs apply to you? Or are you the complete opposite?
If you want to read some more about introverts (and extroverts) head on over to The Quiet Revolution and you can even take their quick 10 question personality test, in case there is still some doubt left!
-Adriana .x