Many people think of introverts as shy, but the two aren't linked. Introversion is a personality type, while shyness is an emotion. People who are shy tend to feel awkward or uncomfortable when they're in social situations, especially when they're around strangers. They may feel so nervous, they become sweaty.
People who are introverts often describe themselves (or are described) as shy, but shyness and introversion are not the same. Shyness has, at its heart, a fear of negative judgment by others. If asked to a party, an introvert might think about whether they want to expend their precious supply of social energy.
Being an introvert doesn't necessarily mean you're socially awkward, but the two do sometimes overlap.
Because someone is introverted it doesn't automatically mean that they lack confidence, they lack self-belief, or that they are shy. Introversion is NOT something that has to be gotten over or grown out of.
Is it a bad thing to be a quiet person? Bust the belief that quietness is a sign of weakness when there is nothing wrong with being an introvert. It is okay to go quiet every once in a while. However, when quietness is part of our introverted personality, it is often perceived as something bad or a sign of weakness.
Introverts are easily distracted by external stimuli and while they might be too nice to say anything, get very frustrated with constant interruptions when they are trying to concentrate.
Weaknesses: social anxiety, shyness, navigating a predominantly extroverted world.
Introverts can experience a bit of anxiety when they need to speak in social situations. Introducing themselves, talking to a stranger or public speaking are mentally draining for them. These are the examples of a definitely stressful situation out of their comfort zone.
Fear of being caught out: If you don't know what to say, it's easy to feel worried about being on the spot. Introverts tend to process thoughts internally, extroverts process externally. In more basic terms, by talking an extrovert processes their thoughts, where an introvert needs to stop and think about things.
Introverts tend to be more prone to overthinking than extroverts, but it's possible for anyone to fall into this trap. Being an introvert means you have a tendency towards self-reflection that can take its toll if you're not careful.
They avoid eye contact or don't maintain it for long.
Not all introverts are shy or have social anxiety, but some do. Introverts who truly feel uncomfortable in crowds often have a hard time maintaining eye contact. Plus, they don't want to encourage others to talk to them.
What struggles have introverts had? Introverts can't usually start a conversation but they really want to have conversation. Struggle to handle situations that depends on extroverts. Introverts find it difficult to really have fun even at the crowded party.. they just need some people to enjoy with, not a party.
Introverts are deep thinkers.
Just like emotional regulation, this is a trait that becomes more attractive when someone has experienced its absence. If someone has been exhausted by the shallowness of another person, they'll be even more drawn to an introvert's depth.
Having insufficient time or space to think.
If you're an introvert, you struggle with finding quiet time to gather your thoughts, particularly at brainstorming meetings. Find quiet places to think, and take breaks just for a change of scenery and a chance to gather your thoughts.
Being shy and being introverted aren't the same thing, although they may look the same. An introvert enjoys time alone and gets emotionally drained after spending a lot of time with others. A shy person doesn't necessarily want to be alone but is afraid to interact with others.
The introverts prone to have spontaneous inside conversations are deemed as “anti-social” or “unwilling to cooperate;” those quiet but internally enriching people are stigmatized as “having nothing to contribute” in group work.
Usually shy and quiet, an introvert gets exhausted physically and drained mentally with too much of external interaction. It doesn't even matter if the gathering is formal or informal. It means the same for him, and has a similar effect. There are very peculiar character traits associated with introverts.
Angry Introverts are in a sensitive state, and they can easily become overstimulated by too much social contact. Interestingly, Introverts won't usually respond to their anger by leaving altogether.
They may feel awkward or out of place in large groups. They may also find small talk to be difficult or uncomfortable. Additionally, introverts require alone time to rejuvenate their social energy and may be less interested in attending social events. This can make it challenging to meet new people and make friends.
Social discomfort.
However, social situations can be stressful and overwhelming for some introverts, particularly in larger, noisier groups, which can make it difficult for them to fully engage in conversations. This can lead to them withdrawing, appearing distant or uninterested in what others are saying.
While introverts may appear to lack social skills or be antisocial, neither is true. Their style of social interaction is simply different from that of extroverts. They tend to listen more than they talk and are excellent listeners.
Humility, an introvert's greatest strength
[14] Humility allows introverted leaders to innovate because they are typically more open to new ideas and suggestions. They listen better and are less likely to follow the first idea that is offered.
INTPs and INTJs are typically seen as the most introverted types. They both enjoy reflecting on their own thoughts and ideas. It's important for them to have time and space away from others in order to truly engage with their inner world.
You must process stimuli from outside before you will respond to them. As an introvert, you are also more sensitive to it than an extrovert: you are easily over-stimulated, because your brain needs less dopamine (the happiness hormone) than an extrovert.