The dichotomy between introverts and extroverts is often broken down to overly simplistic basics, however: Do you like to stay inside? You’re an introvert. Do you love hanging out with friends every night of the week? You’re an extrovert. But the reality is rarely so simple — and, in fact,most people have elements of introversionandextroversion, a combination referred to as the ambivert personality.

Unlike extroverts, who are open to new experiences and excited to share their worldview with others, introverts tend to be more reflective, thoughtful, and are more capable of resisting outside influences. Introverts might view themselves as more important than other people, or they may simply choose to retreat into themselves instead of reaching out to others.

Understanding the Signs of Introversion

Jung’s typology formed the basis of our understanding of introversion, but more research has been done since. Psychologist Hans Eysenckproposedthat extroverts have lower levels of arousal — meaning it takes more effort to enjoy activities. They may seek out novel experiences or enjoy higher-intensity interactions because they simplyneedthat in order to feel excited. Introverts, conversely, are easily stimulated and can quickly become overwhelmed. He developed thePEN model, which posits that there are three main personality traits — psychoticism, neuroticism, and (of course) extroversion — on which everyone falls on a spectrum.

Modern research goes one step farther. One1999 studydefined two central tenets of extraversion: enjoying interpersonal relationships while simultaneously also practicing leadership, assertiveness, and impulsivity. By extension, introverts typically prefer more submissive social roles, and tend to be less impulsive. These characteristics indicate that extroverts may be more goal-motivated, and thus might have more dopamine receptors — which means they need more dopamine to feel its effects — and is associated with reward-seeking behavior, common among extroverts.

Clearly, social status and rewards motivate introverts less than they do extroverts. There are other factors that might indicate you’re an introvert, but before you go checking off those boxes, it’s important to keep in mind that very few people areexclusivelyintroverted or extroverted. We contain multitudes — so be wary of rejecting the beauty of your own unique mix.

You tend toward introspection

It’s not because you don’t like people, or don’t appreciate the outside world. It’s simply exhausting — remember, the outside world can overstimulate introverted people quickly. Focusing on your internal world is much more relaxing.

You recharge in solitude

As an introvert, this doesn’t mean you can’t find some pleasure, relaxation, or relief in social events. Introversion doesn’t mean you don’t like parties, or that you hate the idea of kicking back with a group. It simply means that you don’t typicallyrechargethat way. In fact, you may need some solo time after socializing.

People think you’re quiet

You prefer independence in the workplace

Chances are, you’re probably not seeking out a career in sales. Introverts self-select toward independent careers, and you’ll probably meet a lot of people like you at artists’ colonies, book fairs, and in the programming team of a tech company. You might be an excellent collaborator, but a day full of meetings? No thanks.

If you are working in a super-social field and find yourself stressed, think carefully about how your personality meshes with your career. You might be better-off looking for a position that allows you some alone time.

You can lead — but do best with a motivated team

Don’t let anyone tell you introverts can’t be leaders. All that introspection can be fabulous for developing and managing smart, effective plans. But introverted leaders shine best with a self-sufficient team. Spending hours each week managing the intricacies of relationships, poor performers, and half-finished projects is taxing for even the chattiest extrovert — so it makes sense that introverts might really struggle under these conditions.

Don’t hesitate to grab a leadership position just because you’re worried your introversion might make it difficult. Once you’re there, focus on building your team to self-sufficiency, which will allow your talents to shine.

You’re easily distractible and irritable

This clue isn’t a 100 percent guarantee of introversion — it could indicateattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)— but distractibility and irritability is something to keep an eye on. It all comes back to stimulation: if you’re prone to hyperstimulation, as most introverts are, you might get irritable when the world becomes too much. And paying attention? Not a chance. Your brain is already overloaded.Being an introvert is a gift, but it comes with some associated challenges, too, like distractibility and irritation. While you should always embrace the core elements of your personality,a qualified therapistcan help you work through any negatives to keep you happy and healthy, quietly.

Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.

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