Everyone thinks that introverts are shy and always want to be alone, while extroverts are the opposite.
:
- Shall we rush to the center? I heard there is a party going on there. It will be fun!
- I pass, I have to write another 300 pages this weekend.
- Come on, don't be boring. We're only for a couple of hours!
- Well ... I'd rather ...
- Are you shy?
“I just prefer being alone. There is too much fuss.
Typical traits of an introvert and an extrovert, isn't it?
The main misconception of these two personality types is: extroverts think that introverts never leave their room, while introverts think that extroverts never show up at home. This is pure misunderstanding. Also check out article 10 misconceptions about introverts.
We are all hybrids.
Origin of the terms "introvert" and "extrovert”Can be traced back to the 1920s, when the Swiss psychologist Carl Jung coined these two words to denote opposing personality types.
In fact, introversion and extraversion are not mutually exclusive concepts. More precisely, they are simply at two opposite ends of the spectrum. We ourselves sometimes rush between two extremes, but with only one difference: someone is more prone to introversion, and someone to extraversion. As Carl Jung said, there is no such thing as a pure introvert or extrovert, such a person would end up in an insane asylum.
We have no choice, we are controlled by the brain.
The behavior of introverts and extroverts can be radically different in the minds of people. You might think that it is their whim - to be like that. Here the brain is to blame, it makes the difference. And before his power, everyone is powerless.
Extroverts are hungry for stimuli, and introverts are "sick" from them.
Extroverts are outgoing and always try to be the center of attention. This is due to their relatively weak sensitivity to stimuli. That is why they constantly need to actively seek various stimuli for the functional balance of consciousness.
Hans Eysenck, a German psychologist, defines extroverts by analyzing their arousal formation. The result shows that they have it weaker. Consequently, they need to be drawn into more exciting activities in order to achieve satisfaction, while introverts develop excitement quickly and are easier to satisfy.
Introverts are much more sensitive to stimuli, which is why they prefer to avoid them. In fact, it is difficult for them to do something if they are under the influence of external stimuli that interfere with them.
When you need "recharge”, Introverts and extroverts behave very differently. Introverts accumulate energy when they are alone, and extroverts “recharge»Through social interaction.
Introverts prefer the long road, extroverts always take a shortcut.
Have you ever wondered why extroverts think and make decisions many times faster than introverts?
First, because the prefrontal cortex of introverts is much thicker. The prefrontal cortex is the area responsible for deep thinking and planning. Therefore, they need more time to think when it comes to making decisions or having problems. Introverted brains are like a complex transportation system, while extroverted brains are like a straight highway.
Second, when information needs to be processed, introverts take the longer and more complex path. The route goes through areas of memory, planning, and problem solving. Extroverts, on the other hand, take a shortcut that goes mainly through the areas responsible for sensory processing. Because of this, extroverts tend to speak and act quickly, while introverts take a long time to think about the answer.
Introverts and extroverts react differently to human faces.
In addition to the differences in the cerebral cortex, they have different perceptions of the human face. When shown a picture of a face and a picture of wildlife, extroverts react more vigorously to the latter. Introverts, on the other hand, respond the same to both images.
Of course, this does not mean that introverts are insensitive and not interested in anything. They feel, but not so much. Their level of arousal is low and they need less social arousal to achieve satisfaction.
Personality stereotypes are just as scary as gender stereotypes.
Introverts are associated with shyness and loneliness, while extroverts are associated with openness and sociability. This is not entirely true.
Introverts, in fact, can even be the best speakers because of their deep and thorough thinking. Extroverts who are interested in a variety of topics are more successful in short conversations.
Introverts don't like being alone. Simply because of their high sensitivity, they avoid irritation overload. Therefore, they are more comfortable having a calm conversation in a small group of people. Extroverts, on the other hand, need external stimuli, preferring to have fun with a large company of people.
Can't rank yourself in the same camp? There is a third one for you.
So far, we've only focused on people on both sides of the continuum. "Introvert extrovert". What about the middle?
Ambiverts are the golden mean.
:
- Do you prefer loneliness, but still love people?
- In some situations, do you feel abandoned while others feel good?
- Don't you expect to call yourself an introvert or an extrovert?
If the answer to all questions is yes, then you are probably an ambivert, that is, someone who has traits of both personality types. Such people, depending on the situation, show different qualities.
For example, in a crowded nightclub you feel uncomfortable, but surrounded by classmates you get energized. You feel uncomfortable in a crowd of strangers, and in the company of friends you are a pure extrovert.
In fact, most people are ambiverts. As stated at the beginning, introverts and extroverts are just two extremes.
Find a common language, you are not from two different planets. It seems like introverts and extroverts will never understand each other. But this is not the case. Acknowledging and accepting a difference in character can create the best environment for existence.
Tips for introverts
The key is to find the right balance between work and social life. Try not to completely fall out of the social circle. Socialization is essential. You are low on energy, so use it wisely. Divide it equally between work and friends. It is also important to leave space for yourself to recharge. Never devote all your time to others, otherwise you will soon be exhausted mentally and physically. Allow yourself a full day of rest at least once a week.
Tips for extroverts
Extroverts need to make the difference. Don't push introverts out of their comfort zone, keep an eye on their mood and pick a moment when they are ready to have fun. Forcing them to be violent can be disastrous. And then no one will be satisfied. You can create a schedule that suits both parties.
If your friends are mostly withdrawn and you are unhappy with compromises, then it makes sense to expand your circle of friends. Join clubs, study or find a second job.
Remember, there is nothing wrong with being an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert. The most important thing is to understand and love yourself. You don't have to try to be someone else. If we recognize and understand that all people are different, then only then will it be possible to live in a world full of harmony.
We recommend watching:
If you still do not understand what type of personality you can attribute yourself to, then take a simple test, consisting of 29 statements, which will help you decide.
