Introvert, Extrovert, or Both?

Assalamualaikum!

Have you ever been asked, “Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” and felt confused about how to answer? Sometimes you love being around people, laughing, sharing stories, and feeling the energy of a crowd. But other times, you just want to be alone with your thoughts, away from the noise, recharging in silence.

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If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. You might just be something in between — an ambivert.

In the purest sense, it can be said that introverts draw strength on their alone-time. They like to talk so deep, be in peace and feel the right connection. As opposed to that, extroverts find their energy in the company of other people. They enjoy community life and active gatherings, they hate being alone.

The thing is, though, that the vast majority of people cannot be put into one box. The human behavior is complex and flexible. You can spend one day walking alone by listening to your favorite music, but the next day you can conduct a conversation with your friends or have a party. This is the beauty about having the flexibility of an ambivert; one who is both introvert and extrovert.

Psychologists have come to terms on the basis that there is personality on a continuum. We should therefore, avoid defining ourselves as introvert or extrovert but rather get to know how we react in these situations. And as a case example, you can be silent at work and very jovial and communicative with your close friends. Or perhaps you love presenting yourself in front of an audience but you can barely stand small talk. It does not make you confused- it makes you human.

The fact that they are both may prove to be an asset. The ambiverts are better at adapting to situations, understand when to talk and when to listen and are able to identify with both extremes of the spectrum. They are able to juggle between energy and empathy. However, the trick is self-awareness, being aware of when to get together with people and when to be left alone.

So, next time someone asks you that big question — "introvert or extrovert?" — smile and say:
“Maybe both. It depends on the day... and the vibe.”

Regards
artist1111