Do You Hug the Wall or Every Person You See?
We know ourselves well enough to know whether we excel in a group or with some alone time, but not every trait is so easily spotted. Let’s explore all the telltale signs of the reserved introvert and outgoing extrovert!
1. You Like Your Alone Time
Introverts thrive when they have a little space to themselves. They don’t fret about finding solo hobbies or spending time in their room with a good book. They enjoy hobbies like adult coloring, reading, or just listening to music—things that let them unwind and keep them away from small talk.
2. You’re Not a Fan of Crowds
Crowds are pretty much an introvert’s worst nightmare. It can be an overwhelming, overstimulating tangle of faces that quickly drains social batteries. While they still enjoy a good concert or ball game, they’d likely prefer to stay in the 500 level over the heart of the action.
3. You’re an Amazing Listener
Introverts aren’t very talkative, which makes them incredible listeners. Friends know they can always approach for advice or simply to vent without judgment. They’re also great listeners in new environments since they’d rather not be the center of attention.
4. You Have a Few Close Friends
Introverts are shy, they aren't a huge fan of crowds, and prefer time alone to recharge—of course they prefer a tight-knit community! They likely have a small group of friends over a massive social circle, which is exactly how they like it.
5. You Don’t Let People in Right Away
Introverts often get a bad rap as standoffish or awkward, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, they’re far more reserved than extroverts and don’t enjoy idle small talk with small strangers.
6. You Spend Lots of Time Daydreaming
If you spend a lot of time daydreaming or forming imaginary conversations, you’re likely a textbook introvert. More reserved folk might use it as a coping mechanism or a way to pass the time. They also daydream to fuel their creativity.
7. You Enjoy Remote Work
Introverts thrive when left to their own devices, especially during the workday. They don’t need to speak with coworkers for a social boost and don’t enjoy wasting time at the water cooler—they like time in their own homes so they can get the job done.
8. You’d Rather Write Than Speak Aloud
Introverts tend to veer on the shier side, which often means text messages over phone calls. If they can order food online or send an email instead, it’s easier to communicate that way. They also have more time to think about what they’re going to say, another common trait of introverts.
9. Others Ask You for Advice
We already know that introverts make great listeners—and their friends know it too! Introverts are usually approached for advice because people know they’re non-judgemental active listeners who think about a situation carefully.
10. You Need a Social Reset
Whether it’s an office party or time with friends, introverts need a good social reset. Rather than charge their batteries with friends, they’ll curl up under the covers and enjoy some peace and quiet before venturing out again.
Now that we know the telltale signs of introversion, let’s explore common traits of extroverted people.
1. You Often Think Aloud
Extroverts aren’t shy about sharing their thoughts and feelings, which often means thinking aloud. They may not even need anyone to answer them—it’s just easier to air things out than keep those thoughts bottled up.
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2. You Have a Big Social Circle
Extroverts thrive in crowds or with large groups of friends, something reflected in their social circles. They have no problems making friends or engaging in small talk, and they’re also sticklers for networking.
3. You Do Well in Group Settings
Office meetings? Team projects? No problem! Extroverts love working with others and aren’t afraid to dive in with new people. That kind of interaction and collaboration provides the environment they need to succeed.
4. You’re More Talkative
Do you always make small talk with the grocery store cashier? Do you know the first names of everyone at your local coffee shop? You’re definitely an extrovert. Social butterflies love chatting with new people and making friends wherever they go.
5. You Have More Energy
Extroverts aren’t reserved or shy, they’re usually the bright light in the room! Not only are people drawn to your energy, but you don’t need to recharge your batteries after time in a crowd, and that bubbliness brings more people to your circle.
6. You’re Spontaneous
Extroverts love a little spontaneity now and then—they aren’t phased by sudden changes in plans or a friend asking them to be ready in ten minutes. They’re all about exploring life in the moment.
7. You Love Social Media
For all its downfalls, social media remains a great place for interaction. Extroverts have access to all their friends and the opportunity to make new ones. They can connect with whoever, whenever, and often enjoy their time online.
8. You Enjoy Public Speaking
While introverts may avoid public speaking, extroverts dive right in! They don’t fear being the center of attention and are confident enough to tackle the podium head-on. The same goes for fun events like karaoke nights or office parties.
9. You Might Overshare
Given how chatty extroverts can be, they may overshare from time to time. It’s usually not a big deal but even strangers can learn all about an extrovert’s life in one conversation.
10. Crowds Don’t Phase You
From music festivals to crowded subway stations, large groups of people don’t phase extroverts. They don’t feel drained or overwhelmed and can easily navigate without any need for alone time afterward.
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