One of the most defining aspects of our personalities is our inclination toward either introversion or extroversion. Even in the famous Myers-Briggs personality test, the first letter indicator is either an “I” or an “E.” Both have a profound effect on the relationship between the following three letters. Regardless of which category we happen to fall under, we can all take comfort in identifying with a larger body of people who function like us. Whether we actually want to interact with them or if we would rather just read about them from the comfort of our solitude is up to us.
Extroverted personalities are typically glorified by society. Naturally talkative and charismatic individuals appeal to us; the bold and the vivacious appear to have the whole package. We are encouraged to be loud and proud, to express ourselves, to mingle and socialize. While none of these things are inherently bad, they are sometimes outside the comfort zones of introverts, who often have just as much to offer as their extroverted counterparts.
Introverts are often stereotyped as shy, but in actuality, they are reserved. There is a significant difference between these two words. While one indicates self-doubt, the other just implies that introverts are selective about what and with whom they want to share. Solitude gives them energy because it provides them with time for self-reflection, but that doesn’t exclude them from maintaining close, rewarding relationships. Introverts are often overlooked because they do not demand attention, when ironically they have had a larger amount of personal time to develop their ideas and personalities. Their roles as patient listeners are vital in order to balance out their extroverted colleagues.
On the other hand, sometimes the introverts take such pride in their independence and taciturn approach that they fail to appreciate the value of extroversion for more than the surface-level attention it often achieves.
Extroverts reach their maximum level of happiness and potential by drawing energy from other people. Their enthusiasm can be a powerful force for good because they can positively influence the people around them, and they aren’t afraid to try. While introverts who cringe at the idea of small talk often perceive extroverts as shallow, in actuality extroverts are often just trying to open the doors of communication.
In spite of the sense of belonging we often feel from identifying with one category or the other, it is important to keep in mind that both types have equal value. The rule in this case is not “I before E,” or vice versa. So rather than revering one and resenting the other, it’s essential that we find the beauty in both.
