The Highs and Lows of Introverts and Extroverts: Psychologist Insights
By: Chloe Hart
Have you ever wondered why some people feel energised by a night out with friends, while others recharge by curling up with a book at home?
Susan Woodworth from Walk and Talk Psychology chatted to us about the fascinating world of introverts and extroverts. Here’s what she had to say about these personality types and how understanding your own tendencies can improve your well-being.
What is the difference between Introverts and Extroverts?
At its core, the difference between introverts and extroverts is where they gain energy.
- Extroverts thrive on social interaction. They feel recharged when surrounded by others, whether at a party, a meeting, or even a casual coffee chat.
- Introverts, on the other hand, recharge in solitude or with a close-knit group of trusted friends. It’s not that introverts dislike people—they need alone time to refuel their energy.
Susan explained: “Think about the end of a hard day. Do you prefer to unwind quietly with a cup of tea and some music, or do you feel like calling a friend to chat about your day? Your answer might reveal whether you lean toward introversion or extroversion.“
Misconceptions About Introverts
There’s a common misconception that introverts are shy or antisocial. Not true! Susan highlighted that introverts often enjoy socialising but may find it draining after a while.
“Introverts are thoughtful, great listeners, and tend to think before they speak,” she said. “While they might seem reserved in larger groups, they can be lively and outgoing around close friends and family.”
Interestingly, introverts often face stigma, with society sometimes viewing extroversion as the “better” trait. However, introverts bring unique strengths, such as creativity, deep thinking, and being deliberate in their actions. They also make excellent leaders due to their ability to listen and consider different perspectives before making decisions.
The Strengths and Challenges of Extroverts
Extroverts, on the other hand, thrive on connection and excitement. They’re often described as talkative, energetic, and socially fearless. They tend to have larger friend groups and enjoy being the life of the party.
However, their love for social engagement can have drawbacks.
Susan said: “Extroverts may talk before they think, which can lead to trouble, and they might struggle to enjoy alone time. They could also get bored easily without enough stimulation.”
Finding Balance
Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, the key is knowing what helps you recharge and thrive. For introverts, that might mean setting boundaries to ensure downtime. For extroverts, it could involve learning to appreciate quiet moments and developing self-reflection.
“A balance of both personalities is ideal,” Susan said.
“In a world of only introverts, nothing would get organised. In a group of extroverts, you might have lots of energy but little follow-through.”
Understanding your personality type isn’t about labelling yourself but about recognising your needs and strengths. Whether you gain energy from solitude or social interaction, embracing who you are can help you lead a more fulfilled life.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Photo by Encal Media on Unsplash
