Introverts and extroverts are commonly understood personality types, but what if you don’t fit the typical stereotype of introverts or extroverts? You love your solitude and a quiet evening at home, but at the same time, you aren’t averse to spending a night out with friends, socializing, and having some fun. Well, there is a high chance you are an ambivert, a mixed personality type that includes extroverted introverts and vice versa. This article deals with the former, the extroverted introvert, an intriguing personality blend which combines aspects of both introversion and extroversion, creating a unique and sometimes misunderstood individual.
What is an Extroverted Introvert?
An extroverted introvert exhibits both extroversion and introversion qualities, often depending on the situation. Research says extroverted introverts possess both character traits but lean towards extroversion. These individuals may enjoy socializing and engaging with others but also require time to recharge and introspect.
Today’s psychologists have considered the five-factor personality model rather than just sticking to a dual model of introversion and extroversion. While introverts are rejuvenated by their own company and thoughts, extroverts prefer interacting with others. Now, some people display characteristics of both and are known as ambiverts, such as extroverted introverts.
Extroverted Introverts Are Adaptable.
Extroverted introverts can be outgoing and friendly in specific settings but also cherish solitude and introspection. They might excel in social situations but find themselves drained after prolonged interactions, needing time to rejuvenate. This balance between extroversion and introversion can make extroverted introverts versatile and adaptable in various social contexts.
How Did an Ambivert Originate?
The famous psychiatrist Carl Jung introduced the terms introversion and extroversion to the field of psychology in the 1920s. During his research, Jung found that some individuals couldn’t exclusively qualify as extroverts or introverts. Jung then concluded that there is no such thing as a pure introvert or extrovert. He says, “Some people are fairly well-balanced and just as much influenced from within as from without, or just as little.”
The term ambivert is still vague to lay people today, but thanks to the Internet and scores of psychology websites and videos, the emergence of the ambivert is quite prevalent in the 21st century. Because of this, people have now begun to realize they are neither introverts nor extroverts.
The Benefits of Ambiversion
Ambiverts displaying signs of extroverted introversion enjoy the advantages of an outgoing personality, research says ambiverts are more inclined to succeed in a professional career, excelling in marketing and sales. The big reason behind this phenomenon is how ambiverts are adaptable and know when to turn on or off their personality according to the demands of the environment and situations. This dramatically differs from extroverts who don’t know when to step back, revealing too much of themselves. Moreover, ambiverts sync with both sides of the personality spectrum, thus making them more approachable.
10 Signs You Might Be an Extroverted Introvert
The big question is how you would determine which or what you would identify. Here are ten signs you might be an extroverted introvert.
1. Your Environment Influences Your Energy
The ambience of an environment is a significant factor in how you react. The vibes, noise, people, and music can either energize you, bore you, or drain you. For example, sitting in a home theatre with amazing acoustics and close friends can freak you out in a happy way; it could even be soothing, but a rock concert with eardrum-blasting decibels and writhing bodies could put you off instantly.
2 You Have Limits When It Comes to Socializing
You enjoy socializing and can be the life of the party when the mood strikes, but you also have your limits. After a certain point, you crave solitude to recharge and regain your energy. The scenario is the same when you must mingle with friends. You don’t mind a night or two out, but at the same time, you need time off to recharge, which you do best in your own company. Moreover, you are selective in social interaction, and you keep. You prefer meaningful conversations over small talk and value quality over quantity regarding friendships.
3. People Mean Differently to You
It’s okay to meet new people and hear their life stories now and then, but the thought of meeting someone new and going out with friends every day does not seem likely to you. An extroverted introvert will always want to relax at home on weekends, alone or with just one close friend.
- You shun groups of people but are comfortable with one or two friends
- You enjoy time off and prefer a vacation solo or one partner
4. Deep Thinker
Despite your outgoing nature, you possess a rich inner world. You enjoy introspection and often find yourself lost in thought, contemplating various ideas and concepts. You often channel your thoughts and emotions into creative pursuits. Whether it’s writing, art, or music, creative expression allows you to convey your innermost thoughts and feelings.
5. You Are Adaptable
One of the most common personality traits of an extroverted introvert is adaptability. You can adapt to different social environments, whether it’s a bustling party or an intimate gathering. Moreover, extroverted introverts won’t hesitate to be outgoing professionally to enhance their career. While you may thrive in certain situations, you know when to step back and recharge.
6. You Prefer Speaking Your Mind Than Engaging in Small Talk
Extroverts love small banter regardless of the time. In contrast, extroverted introverts find it more accessible to express their opinions outright and get to the point rather than make fake conversation about what they ate for breakfast, who they saw on the street or the weather.
7. Balanced Lifestyle
While socializing is essential to some extent, extroverted introverts invest time in themselves, prioritizing self-care to ensure mental well-being. Extroverted introverts also prefer solitude and enjoy activities like reading, writing, or spending time in nature. For an extroverted introverted life is all about balance.
8. You Don’t Find the Need to Prove Yourself
At social events, you don’t feel the need to draw attention to yourself. Of course, the importance of social connections isn’t lost on you, and you value the moments of meeting like-minded souls, but you don’t end up the most popular person at an event, and you are okay with it—in fact, you are relieved, too.
9. Empathetic Listener
Your ability to empathize and listen attentively makes you a valuable friend and confidant. You genuinely care about others’ well-being and offer support when needed. However, you only sometimes find it easy to open to others unless you identify with them or feel the need to.
10. People Mistake You for An Extrovert
One of the biggest signs of an extroverted introvert is how others mistake you for being an extrovert. While you know you feel like an introvert, your unique personality, and the ability to adapt makes others mistake you as an extrovert. In fact, your family, too, might not take you as an introvert, given your nature of playing the extrovert role. But that’s it; for you, it’s a necessary role, while your inherent nature is that of an introvert.
If you identify with the abovementioned signs, you may be an extroverted introvert. It would help if you remembered that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of an extroverted introvert, and everyone’s experience may vary. It’s essential to embrace your individuality and the qualities that make you who you are.
