The Gift of Introversion

Introverts tend to be more quiet, reserved, and introspective. Unlike extroverts who gain
energy from social interaction, introverts have to expend energy in social situations.
After attending a party or spending time in a large group of people, introverts often feel
a need to "recharge" by spending a period of time alone.
Common Introversion Traits
Introversion is marked by a number of sub-traits:
Very self-aware
Thoughtful
Enjoys understanding details
Interested in self-knowledge and self-understanding
Tends to keep emotions private
Quiet and reserved in large groups or around unfamiliar people
More sociable and gregarious around people they know well
Learns well through observation
How Does Introversion Influence Behavior?
How does introversion impact behavior?
One important thing to remember is that not all introverts are the same. Some people
might be very introverted, others only a little, or somewhere in between.
Some ways that introversion might influence behavior include the following:
Introverts may have fewer, closer friends.
Researchers have found that people high in this trait tend to have a smaller group of
friends. While extroverts generally have a wide circle of friends and acquaintances,
introverts typically choose their friends much more carefully. Their closest relationships
tend to be profound and significant. They also prefer to interact with people on a oneon-one
basis rather than in a large group setting.
Introverts may be reserved, but it does not mean they are necessarily shy or
socially anxious.
It is important to note that introversion does not necessarily equate with shyness. In
their book, The Development of Shyness and Social Withdrawal, authors Schmidt and
Buss write, "Sociability refers to the motive, strong or weak, of wanting to be with others,
whereas shyness refers to behavior when with others, inhibited or uninhibited, as well
as feelings of tension and discomfort."
Shyness indicates a fear of people or social situations.
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