In the world of personality, there are quite a few variations of behavioral tendencies. With that said, there are really only two main foundations by which all other personality traits take their shape. Let’s take a look at the differences between introverts and extroverts.
How Do You Recharge?
Often we think of the two foundations as personality elements alone. However, this view is a little bit short sided. It’s not quite as black and white as you may think. Often, the leaders that you may think are extroverts are actually introverts. Just because someone excels in their social interactions doesn’t mean that is energizes them. The truest defining factor between the two natures actually comes down to how they get their energy. Introverts are predominantly energized by alone time while extroverts and predominantly energized by being with people.
Differences in Perspective
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Introverts
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Extroverts
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Prefer a small, tight-knit group of friends and are not interested in meeting new people on a regular basis.
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Love the idea of meeting new people whenever possible. “The more the merrier,” is the extrovert’s motto.
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Introverts
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Extroverts
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Times of rest or vacation are preferably taken alone, with their spouse or just one or two other people. It’s a time to read, unwind, take quiet walks, etc.
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An extroverts idea of rest or vacation includes meeting all of the locals and doing as much activity as possible. They want an adventure.
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Introverts
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Extroverts
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An introvert does enjoy people and relationships but will need to take time afterwards to unplug. Though they enjoy relational activity, it drains them of energy and they need to retreat and recharge before being social again.
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In extrovert will feel drained if they don’t engage in regular social activity. It’s what builds them up. If they have to leave early from a social function, they feel cheated, like they are greatly missing out.
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Wrong or Right?
It’s important to remember that neither of these are “right,” or better than the other. They are simply different. Extroverts help the world come out of their shell and add life to the party while introverts help others to go deep and engage in meaningful conversation. Both of those are totally necessary.
Understanding which side of the equation you fall on will greatly improve your ability to offer your best to any scenario. It will also give you an edge in interacting with those of the opposite inclination because you’ll know what they need.