Do you often feel misunderstood? Often hear, “why are you so quiet?” “you should get out of your shell” Do you have something to say” “Why do you spend so much time alone?.” Then you’re probably an introvert.
If you’re an introvert, then you know how frustrating it can be to hear those statement over and over. Well, you’re not alone.
I have always felt misunderstood.
Often feeling like an outsider, like there was something wrong with being quiet and my need for solitude.
The day I realized I was an introvert and not shy or weird was the most liberating moment ever. Finally, I understand my personality.
So, in this post, we will discuss the different types of introverts, am i an extrovert or introvert, introvert burnout and self-care ideas for introverts.
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What’s Introvert mean? definition of introvert
Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something.
Plato
Introverts are individuals who prefer calm, low-stimulating environments. We are frequently exhausted from a social situation and prefer solitude.
Introverts prefer thought-provoking and meaningful conversations. They prefer quality over quantity of friends.
As an introvert, there is nothing more fulfilling than spending time in solitude. Though society makes us feel out of place, and the need to change our complex way of being.
Personally, I avoid social situations, screen all my call, and my idea of a perfect night is being alone with a book, glass of wine, movie, or being creative.
Introverts can also easily communicate and have a long meaningful conversation about things they are passionate about. They can also effortlessly spend the entire day alone and enjoy every moment.
To an extrovert, this may sound weird, but I find their need for constant interaction bizarre.
what is an introvert personality: 4 introvert personality type
Silence is only frightening to people who are compulsively verbalizing.
William S. Boroughs
It’s important to realize that there are 4 main introvert personality type and not everyone will identify with each type. Some introverts are more social while others have a strong need to be alone.
I see my personality in each type of introversion, but I identify more with thinking introverts. Since I spend a lot of time in my head. Like way too much…
1| Restrained Introvert
Restrained Introversion tends to take some time warming up before completely engaging with others. They are not afraid of conversation but tend to think before they act or speak. Restrained introverts tend to move at a slower pace and can sometimes be sluggish and low energy. (source)
2| Social Introvert
Social introvert does not mean they like to socialize. This type of introversion usually prefers to spend their time alone.
But when they do socialize it is usually with a close group of friends. Instead of partying or attending large gatherings, social introverts prefer to Netflix and chill, they are more of the homebody type.
They have a need to constantly be alone and tend to get emotionally drained with too much socializing. (source)
3| Thinking Introvert
Thinking or introspective introversion spends a lot of their time in their heads. Just like me, it’s the best place to be.
They are often known as intellectual introverts because of their rich inner world and ability for deep critical thinking.
They are very self-reflective and thoughtful with a big imagination. But they don’t tend to avert social situations as social introverts do. (source)
4| Anxious Introvert
Anxious introverts have difficulty interacting with others, they tend to feel self-conscious and awkward around others.
They also tend to avoid large gatherings because of their anxiety. This is not social anxiety but could be borderline.
Anxious introverts tend to have a negative thought pattern. They also constantly analyze how things could have been different and imagine how future events will be based on previous experiences. (source)
What Are The Qualities Of Introvert? characteristics of an introvert
There’s zero correlation between being the best talker and having the best ideas.
Susan Cain
- Introverts thrive in solitude, are creative, problem solvers, add meaning and depth to the conversation, they are observers and crave meaningful conversation.
- They make devoted friends since they are good listeners, and tend to pay attention to verbal and nonverbal cues.
- Introverts are also deep thinkers and process ideas more in-depth. They are thoughtful and will give you their undivided attention when communicating with them.
- Introverts work best alone and can completely immerse themselves in their work for long periods.
- Introverts are loyal friends.
am i introvert or extrovert: meaning of introvert and extrovert
For introverts, to be alone with our thoughts is as restorative as sleeping, as nourishing as eating.
Jonathan Rauch
Wondering if you’re an extrovert or introvert? Then keep reading.
Extroverts thrive in highly stimulating situations, and their energy is directed towards people and their environment.
Their expression of energy is towards the otter world and they act, feel, and think in response to their surroundings.
Extroverts are individuals who thrive in social situations. They are outgoing, love high-energy situations, and are the center of attention. And they are often restless and bored when alone.
On the other hand, introverts are more reserved and dislike small talk. When an introvert is in a social situation for too long, they get overstimulated and feel the need to withdraw.
Introverts feel, act, and think in the effect of their inner world. After a long day, introverts need solitude to recharge. They have small groups of meaningful friendships and prefer alone time.
Take this introvert extrovert quiz to gain more clarity, whether you’re an extrovert or introvert. Or try this Personality Test for introvert or extrovert to learn more about your personality type.
Is It Bad To Be An Introvert?
A good rule of thumb is that any environment that consistently leaves you feeling bad about who you are is the wrong environment.
Laurie Helgoe
I have always thought there was something wrong with me, mostly since other people point it out. “Why are you so quiet”, “you’re so antisocial”, “don’t you have anything to say”. The torture…
But then I realized I was a completely normal introvert. And I am not alone. It’s believed that more than half of Americans are introverts. But they just pretend to be otherwise to fit in.
I love my alone time, It’s when I feel my most peaceful and aligned. But for most people who don’t understand what it’s like to be an introvert, they assume that there is something unusual about us.
But let me tell you, your quietness, need for solitude, and gentle caring nature allow you to be a great leader and the most endearing friend. With an amazing ability to process information more in-depth.
So no, being an introvert is not a bad thing. It is actually the most unique personality type there is.
A step in embracing your introversion is self-acceptance. Through releasing the idea that you need to fit in with the extroverts and losing the belief that there is something wrong with your quietness. And accepting who you are.
Related: How To Stay True To Yourself & Live To The Fullest
Signs Of Introvert Burnout
I’m very picky with whom I give my energy to. I prefer to reserve my time, intensity and exclusively to those who reflect sincerity.
Dau Voire
Introverts tend to be more sensitive to stimulation, which is why too much social interaction typically causes us to feel drained and burnout.
So, if you’re wondering what are the signs of introvert burnout then keep reading.
- You become easily irritated. The slightest little thing gets on your nerves.
- You tend to become emotional without reason.
- You feel overly tired.
- You’re zoning out.
- Have no more energy for small talk.
- You can’t think clearly, become forgetful.
- Have low energy and fatigue.
- Suddenly have an intense desire to be alone.
- Feeling depressed or anxious.
- Feeling mentally and physically exhausted.
- Feeling disconnected and unable to stay present.
Self-Care Ideas For Introverts
Don’t underestimate me because I’m quiet. I know more than I say, think more than I speak and observe more than you know.
Michaela Chung
After being overstimulated by social situations, introverts need solitude to recharge to feel their best.
Having a good self-care routine is essential to their mental health. Here are some ideas to help introverts recharge.
- Find quiet time for inner peace. I created a morning routine where I wake up 2 hours before my family does, to meditate, read, pray, exercise, and journal. This is when I work on myself and have complete solitude. To focus on my inner world and recharge.
- Pamper yourself. Take a bath, read, meditate, do hot yoga, journal, listen to music, make time for gratitude, do your nails, get a massage, use essential oils, you get the idea.
- Get outside, there is nothing more relaxing than being outdoors, watching birds, the trees, flowers, or doing gardening.
- Spend a quiet day at the beach or enjoy a picnic alone.
- Try breathing exercises where you take long, deep breaths and focus on your breathing.
- Find what excites you, a hobby where you can immerse yourself in to bring you joy.
Related: Self-Care Ideas To Boost Mental & Physical Health: Free & Cheap
Final Thoughts On Understanding Introverts
If you’re still not sure if you’re an introvert or extrovert, take the test on introvert and extrovert or this free Personality Test and get clarity.
If you are an introvert, own it. Do not change your gentle nature to fit into the extroverted ways of society.
Ensure you take time out for your mental health to avoid introvert burnout.
And remember, being an introvert is perfectly normal, so accept yourself and never change your introversion to fit in. Let the world adapt to your way of being.
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