Are you an introvert or an extravert. Many people think that if you are social and outgoing that you are an extravert. Introverts are the quiet people. However, what people don’t realize is that is not what defines the two categories. The way you find out which one you are is to answer this question. At the end of a long day, do I want to go home and be quiet to recharge my batteries? Or do I want to get on the phone or visit friends. That is what determines which one you are. How do you recharge your batteries?
Another interesting fact is that you can be a social introvert. You may be comfortable around many people. Yet after that event, you are exhausted and need to go home for alone time. Also, none of us are true introverts or extraverts. It lies on a continuum. You may lean more to one side or the other, or be someplace in the middle. Perhaps there are days you need peace and quiet. Other days you need social interaction.
Introverts tend to be more thinkers and processers. They typically take longer to come up with solutions. However, they are well thought out. Extraverts are quicker to come up with responses. Both of these have advantages and disadvantages. The introvert is less likely to come up with snap decisions, which may be beneficial to the situation. Having a quick decision can also be helpful, again depending on the situation.
Introverts may have fewer friends. However, these friendships are deep, as introverts do not like small talk. They tend to be good listeners and avoid conflict. Extroverts tend to do more of the talking vs. listening.
Introverts prefer to work alone whereas extraverts like to work with others. Based on the task at hand, one of these two personality types are preferred. Obviously different work settings would be preferable. If someone prefers to work alone, then being in an office with a bunch of cubicles might be detrimental. However, the extravert would work well in this situation. On the other hand, if the job requires solitary work, then the extravert may not be happy. Again, certain jobs are better fits for the personality. Here is an interesting article on introverts and leadership. http://ktrh.iheart.com/articles/houston-news-121300/a-surprise-finding-about-ceos-15753028/
People often wonder if it’s better to be an introvert or an extravert. I would say that neither is better. They both have their pros and cons. However, when these two different personality types marry, there can be some conflict with it comes to weekends and social activities. If this is something that is a challenge for you, please contact me at 713-304-6554.
Take care,
Debbie Grammas, PhD.
