When you hear the word introvert, what do you think? You can be excused for thinking of someone timid and hates human interaction, as this is a common misconception of introverts.
You may also think of someone who would rather stay in the house reading a book than go out with friends. However, there is much more to know about this often-unappreciated personality type.
What is an Introvert?
The definition of an introvert is someone who prefers an environment that is calm and minimally stimulating. The psychiatrist Carl Jung developed the concept in the 1920s and focused on where different people draw energy from. He considered introverts to prefer to recharge their social battery by spending time alone or with one or two people and feel drained after socializing in large groups. Extroverts, on the other hand, are people that feel re-energized in the company of others.
Introversion is considered a personality trait set before birth, but considering everyone as either an extreme introvert or extrovert is often too simplified. The truth is that most people are a combination of both.
How to know if you're an introvert?
Do you dislike group work, feel tired after being in a crowd, or enjoy spending time alone? If so, you might be an introvert.
Being an introvert is perfectly normal; introverts make up around 30-50% of the US population. Even if you're not an introvert, one of your colleagues, friends, or family members likely is.
Other signs that you might be an introvert are that you:
Need silence to concentrate
Are self-aware and reflective
Take time making decisions
Preferring to write rather than talk
Have few friendships, but I form a few very close bonds with these friends
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