Are You an Introvert?

If you are new to all this introvert stuff, but feel like you may be one of the tribe, this is the post for you. I didn’t know I was an introvert, until I was well into my adult years. I am quiet and have always enjoyed spending time by myself. For some reason a lot of people are uncomfortable with quiet people and they feel like they have to help them be more social. I spent much of my life thinking something was wrong with me. I felt like I had to constantly push myself to be someone different than my true self, so I could fit in and be successful.

This is a disheartening way to navigate life. Different cultures value personality traits differently, and America loves its extroverts. It rewards assertiveness, being social and loudness. If you are quiet and keep to yourself it is often viewed as a weakness and that perhaps you don’t quite measure up to your extrovert counterparts. But, I am hear to tell you that being an introvert is a healthy way of behaving in the world and you are just as strong and capable as anyone else.

Being an introvert means that you enjoy the inner life of your mind over the outer world of other people. Extroverts are on the other side of the spectrum, preferring the outer world of people over their inner life.

Other Characteristics of Introverts:

• Enjoy quiet time by themselves
• They like people, but prefer small groups
• Have one or two close friends
• Prefer calm environments
• Gain energy from thinking, creating and being alone
• Social interaction is draining
• Not a lot of patience for small talk or people who are not genuine
• Enjoy deep and meaningful interaction
• Think better by themselves

Is this sounding like you? Well, if it is, you are not alone. 25 to 40% of the population are introverts. Introversion is not the same as social anxiety. It is a personality style. Unfortunately, there are some downsides to being an introvert. Because you are quiet, some people may find it hard to get to know you or they may think you are arrogant or aloof. Also, too much stimulation leaves you feeling distracted and unable to focus. These are small prices to pay, because the positives of being an introvert far outweigh the negatives.

Benefits of Being an Introvert:

I hope this has helped you in figuring out if you are an introvert or not. Chance are if you are questioning it, you are probably part of the introvert family. Welcome and I hope that you appreciate and love yourself for all of your amazing introvert qualities!