The Question of the Month is hosted by Michael G D'Agostino from the blog A Life Examined. The first Monday of each month I'll be answering a question posed by Michael. Here is this month's question:
“Are you an introvert or an extrovert?”
I used to think I was an extrovert. A huge extrovert. I mean, I can talk to anyone ranging from the next person in a grocery line or a complete stranger out at an event. I do lots of things on my own like participate in races, volunteer, travel, etc. I get out there. I do things. I meet people. I'm friendly.
Yep, I've always thought of myself as outgoing. But the older I get, the more people I encounter, and the more I learn about extrovert vs introvert, maybe I'm really somewhere in the middle. And what is the definition of extrovert and introvert anyways? Some say extrovert/introverts aren't about the "doing" or being "friendly" versus being shy and isolated, it's about how you get your "battery recharged". Basically, does being around other people charge you up and excite you, or drain you? Because if that's the true definition, then I'm both. I'm actually an Ambivert. (Yes, that's a real thing.)
In like minded activities such as hanging out with friends, seeing a band, or attending a race event, it's easy to talk to people and get charged up by the shared excitement over a common interest. But in the day to day, I tend to find people very draining. Complaining. Negative. And sadly, I can very easily fall into that mode. You know the one. "People suck, I'd rather be alone" kind of mood. But the fact is, not all of them (people) suck. And when I feel like this, I try to find some down time to recoil from society and recharge. Maybe I volunteer, maybe I read. Maybe I just need to sit in front of a TV and veg out.
So, to answer the question? I'm an ambivert. I enjoy the qualities of both the introvert and extrovert. I can be highly social, friendly, and super out going, but, at the end of the day, I also enjoy my solitude in something like a morning cup of coffee or reading. Finding a balance between the two (extrovert/introvert) can be hard at times, and heaven help you if momma is out of balance - it can be down right draining. Thankfully, the imbalance doesn't last long and I'm up and ready to be social again in no time. Or maybe I'll go finish that book I'm reading.
Yep, I've always thought of myself as outgoing. But the older I get, the more people I encounter, and the more I learn about extrovert vs introvert, maybe I'm really somewhere in the middle. And what is the definition of extrovert and introvert anyways? Some say extrovert/introverts aren't about the "doing" or being "friendly" versus being shy and isolated, it's about how you get your "battery recharged". Basically, does being around other people charge you up and excite you, or drain you? Because if that's the true definition, then I'm both. I'm actually an Ambivert. (Yes, that's a real thing.)
In like minded activities such as hanging out with friends, seeing a band, or attending a race event, it's easy to talk to people and get charged up by the shared excitement over a common interest. But in the day to day, I tend to find people very draining. Complaining. Negative. And sadly, I can very easily fall into that mode. You know the one. "People suck, I'd rather be alone" kind of mood. But the fact is, not all of them (people) suck. And when I feel like this, I try to find some down time to recoil from society and recharge. Maybe I volunteer, maybe I read. Maybe I just need to sit in front of a TV and veg out.
So, to answer the question? I'm an ambivert. I enjoy the qualities of both the introvert and extrovert. I can be highly social, friendly, and super out going, but, at the end of the day, I also enjoy my solitude in something like a morning cup of coffee or reading. Finding a balance between the two (extrovert/introvert) can be hard at times, and heaven help you if momma is out of balance - it can be down right draining. Thankfully, the imbalance doesn't last long and I'm up and ready to be social again in no time. Or maybe I'll go finish that book I'm reading.
I so want to be an ambivert. My husband is and he seems to have a good time no matter what's going on. Good post.
ReplyDeleteYes, I like the description about how you get recharged. It definitely makes me an introvert.
ReplyDeleteSusan Says
I think a lot of people have learned a new word today. I think I'm with you and I classify as an ambivert. Thanks Lynn :)
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm the same way! I didn't know there was an ambivert option. Thanks for sharing that!
ReplyDeletePlay off the Page
I've always considered myself an introvert, and I am an introvert on the Myers-Briggs personality test (try taking it online some time -- it's interesting!). You're probably on the cusp of extrovert vs. introvert, so ambivert is a good word!
ReplyDelete