10 Signs that Show You're an Introvert
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Jakarta – An introvert is a term used to describe an individual who tends to be more reserved, reflective, and inward-focused in their social interactions and preferences.
They feel more comfortable focusing on their inner thoughts and ideas, rather than what’s happening externally. They enjoy spending time with just one or two people, rather than large groups or crowds.
Being an introvert isn't an all-or-nothing stamp on your personality. Psychologists think of introverts as falling somewhere on a scale. Some people are more introverted than others. Other people fall right in the middle of the scale. They're called ambiverts.
Introverts usually have a few extroverted traits mixed in with their introverted ones, and vice versa. There are a wide range of ways to be an introvert.
One study shows that introverts tend to fall into one of four subtypes:
Social introverts
This is the "classic" type of introvert. Social introverts like small groups and quiet settings over crowds.
Thinking introverts
People in this group are daydreamers. They spend a lot of time in their thoughts and tend to have creative imaginations.
Anxious introverts
They seek out alone time not just because they like it, but also because they often feel awkward or shy around people.
Restrained/inhibited introverts
These introverts think before they act. They aren't likely to make a decision on a whim. Typically they take longer to take action.
Well, here are some signs someone is an introvert, as reported from various sources:
1. Small talk
Introverts are incredibly skilled at active listening. As natural listeners, they process information internally, which allows them to hear, understand, and provide carefully considered insight when they give a response.
They, indeed, are not a fan of conversations that bounce back and forth too much; therefore, introverts tend to be the best people to go to if you want a good vent. They are observers and enjoy letting people vent their feelings.
2. Prefer to be alone
An introvert loves to spend time alone. They get energy from the time they spend alone. They often feel too tired or over-stimulated by too much social interaction.
Being alone gives them the opportunity to reflect, internalize their thoughts, and feel good about themselves.
3. Being Selectively Social, Not Anti-Social
A widespread misconception about introverts is that they do not like people or spend time with them.
While introverts usually do not enjoy much socializing, they actually enjoy spending time around others, but introverts tend to prefer the company of close friends.
An extrovert might go to a party to meet new people and have fun. Still, instead of going to a large social circle that introverted people only know superficially, introverts tend to prefer long-lasting relationships marked by great closeness and intimacy.
Research has found that people that are classified as more introverted tend to have a smaller group of friends, while extroverts generally have a wide circle of acquaintances and friends.
Introverts typically choose their friends much more carefully, and their closest relationships tend to be profound and significant. They also prefer interacting with people one-on-one rather than in a group setting.
Introverts are not anti-social. They enjoy social outings but are selective in the gatherings we choose.
4. Thinking deeply
Introverted personalities are often characterized by thinking more deeply and profoundly about certain topics. They can become experts in a particular field due to their deep interest and their ability to focus with great intensity.
5. Thinking Before Speaking
Before speaking, introverts tend to think about their words well. They are not always spontaneous in their speech and prefer to plan what they will say.
The quality of communication is more important than the quantity of words.
6. Happier and More Energized by Aloneness
Extroverted people find it mysterious that introverts can get excited and experience a higher sense of well-being all by themselves. As an introvert, you’re a one-man band and thrive on being alone. You create your space in a way that provides an air of peace and tranquility.
7. Having Too Many People Around Feels Draining
Introverts tend to have a lot of energy although it may not appear so at a glance. At the same time, they get easily drained from dealing with too many people at the same time. Interacting for an extensive period of time zaps their energy at lightning speed.
In contrast, those who are extroverted gain energy from social interactions. Some even thrive on it.
8. Need to Recharge After Social Interactions
“People empty me. I have to get away to refill.” The statement by poet and novelist Charles Bukowski sums up how introverted people feel at the end of a social event.
The next day you’ll find yourself withdrawn and suffering from what is called “people exhaustion.”
During your shut-down period, you’re processing the event and putting things in perspective to gain clarity. Introverts function better that way. Days may pass before you start feeling energetic again and ready to deal with people.
9. Don’t Easily Let People In
Extroverts are wide open, in terms of meeting and socializing with just about anyone they encounter. You don’t need to be a friend. Not with introverts. You feel more comfortable with people you know and trust.
10. High Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is one of the positive traits of introverts. The ability comes from the way they process information, which is by turning inward and introspecting.
As an introvert, people may get impatient with you for taking too long to make up your mind. However, it’s that awareness in connection with yourself, others, and your environment that causes you to take your time. You hate making mistakes, anyway.
People with a high level of self-awareness tend to make wiser decisions, are better leaders, and have more satisfying relationships than those who aren’t.