Introverts (or those of us with introverted tendencies) tend to recharge by spending time alone. They lose energy from being around people for long periods of time, particularly large crowds. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain energy from other people.
Introverts often feel energised by solitary activities like reading, writing, or reflection, and they may find socialising to be draining or overwhelming. They might be more reserved in the way they communicate, but it doesn't necessarily mean they are shy, anti-social, or lack confidence.
Extroverts typically find their energy building when they are around other people. Spending the day around others, for example networking or at an event, will leave extroverts feeling energised.
Introverts tend to gain energy from their inner world more than their outer world. They may enjoy social interactions, but they tend to thrive in smaller groups and one-on-one conversations. This allows them to engage more deeply in conversations and expend less energy.
Yes! Everyone has an energetic presence. It doesn't matter if you are an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert – you have an energetic presence.
Social interaction can fuel some people, especially extroverts. To introverts, the same level of social interaction can be draining instead. While introverts can appreciate socializing, they invest a lot of energy trying to navigate socially demanding environments, leading to social exhaustion.
“Introverts gain energy from being alone, and lose energy in stimulating environments such as crowds and social settings. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain energy from being out and about and socializing.
Being asked to speak during a meeting, a surprise party or trip, or unexpectedly running into an acquaintance at the store can feel overwhelming to an introvert. Introverts may also experience more stress when they don't have time to decompress or recharge themselves with some alone time.
They're observant
In addition to their superior listening skills, introverts possess what Buelow considers a “superpower”: their observation skills. “We notice things others might not notice because they're talking and processing out loud,” she says.
Not only is Einstein one of the most famous scientists in history, but he was also a known introvert. Leaning into his introverted nature, Einstein believed that his creativity and success came from keeping to himself. He said, “The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.”
In contrast, introverts expend energy during social interactions. They may need to recharge by spending time alone. Other people who may need to do this include autistic people and those with social anxiety.
“Introverts and extroverts are attracted to each other because of the differences,” says Ross. And, in some ways, this can work really well, like when the more introverted person feels like they need more social appointments on their calendar, or when the extroverted person is feeling overwhelmed by their commitments.
Highly sensitive introverts notice little things that others miss. A lot of little things, especially when it comes to other people. They notice when someone's tone of voice doesn't match their words. They notice when someone won't meet their eyes when answering their question.
Signs that you may be experiencing introvert burnout include physical exhaustion, irritability, anxiety, and loss of expressiveness; however, you could experience a range of other symptoms to varying degrees.
Weaknesses: social anxiety, shyness, navigating a predominantly extroverted world.
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. Ask for agendas prior for meetings to help you prepare your key points.
Independence. Unique and fiercely independent, introverts are more inclined to let their own inner resources guide them than follow the crowd. We do our best work — and are our happiest — when we have the freedom to explore ideas, spend time alone, and be self-directed and independent.
In social situations, they will strive to protect you.
Introverts are considerate individuals who care about the comfort of others, especially in social situations. They often introduce themselves to others before introducing them to you, in order to assess how much time or energy it would take to get to know them.
Introverts enjoy activities they can do alone or with just a few others. So, it's not surprising that so many introverted, gifted children love to read. They also tend to prefer activities that allow for creative expression, like creative writing, music, and art.
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.
An introvert hangover, also called introvert burnout, occurs when an introvert has spent too much time interacting with others and they feel exhausted and drained. Many people don't realize that introverts can be very outgoing and enjoy social interactions.
Introverts on the other hand, have a less active dopamine system, which makes them find certain levels of social stimulation tiring. As a result, introverts are more likely to seek internal satisfaction rather than the external rewards found in social settings.