Are You an Introvert, Extrovert, or Ambivert? Here’s how to Recharge and Nourish Your Personality Type
Are you finding the social distancing and quarantine measures brought about by COVID-19 difficult to handle? Perhaps the strange times we’re living through have inspired you to think more carefully about your mental health and need for social nourishment?
You’re not alone. Around 40% of US adults reported feeling anxious or depressed in a recent survey, in large part due to increased social isolation. If you’re a natural introvert, you may think you’re immune from these negative feelings. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Remarkably, a recent study uncovered higher levels of severe loneliness, depression, and anxiety in introverts compared to other personality types. That’s right – the introvert/extrovert spectrum is very complicated!
Fortunately, we’ve done our homework and put together a handy guide to recharging your batteries in line with your specific personality type. Remember – self-care is vital for good mental health, and understanding what makes you tick is a great place to start.
Am I an introvert, extrovert or ambivert?
Unsure of you where you fit on the spectrum of personality types? Here are few tell-tale signs that you’re an:
1. Introvert
You enjoy solitary activities such as gardening, crafting, gaming, writing, reading, or watching movies. The prospect of a calm day at home is exciting rather than punishing.
You feel a little tired after social interactions, particularly with people you’ve never met before.
You have a tight-knit circle of friends and value quality over quantity when it comes to social interactions.
You’re better at working alone compared to collaborating in a group.
You’re prone to daydreaming and have a very active mind. When given a task, you often spend time working out a precise plan of action before getting to work.
Writing is your preferred form of communication. You’re comfortable with casual conversations but find public speaking stressful.
You’re prone to ‘zoning out’ during difficult conversations or social situations.
2. Extrovert
You feel comfortable in big groups and often take charge of projects.
You feel drained after spending too much time alone.
You have a large social network and make friends easily.
You enjoy social settings and being the center of attention. You aren’t afraid to introduce yourself to new people and actively seek out social situations.
You prefer to vocalize your problems rather than bottle them up.
You don’t dwell on problems and are generally optimistic and cheerful.
You’re prone to risky behavior and appreciate instant rewards.
You’re not very well-organized but adapt well to adversity. Often, your spontaneous plans are praised by those around you.
3. Ambivert
Here’s where things get a little tricky. Most of us are ambiverts, with traits characteristic of both introverts and extroverts. Signs differ between people, as ambiversion is a spectrum. Here are just a few:
You’re known for being outgoing in certain situations and more reserved in others.
You’re able to turn on the charm in professional situations but find prolonged social activities tiring.
You’re comfortable introducing yourself to strangers and enjoy being the center of attention but love spending long periods alone.
You enjoy working in teams but need time alone to truly thrive.
You prefer to plan tasks thoroughly but are confident with improvising if you need to.
Self-care tips for nourishing your personality type
Right, you should have a rough idea of where you fit on the personality spectrum now. Here are a few tried-and-tested tips for looking after yourself if you’re an:
1. Introvert
Schedule time to recharge: This can be difficult, particularly if your timetable is fit to burst. It is important to respect your personality type, however, and allocating a strict block of time to recharge every day is vital for reducing stress. It doesn’t have to be extensive – even ten minutes will do!
Don’t compare yourself to others: Comparing yourself to extroverts on social media is a one-way ticket to feelings of sadness and inferiority. Try to remember that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. While the person in question may be great at networking, they’re unlikely to possess your superior writing skills or creativity.
Don’t feel guilty about turning down invitations: Feeling pressured to attend a party or conference? Many people (particularly women) attend events purely to avoid offending others. Saying no, however, is a great way to assert your inner strength and empower yourself.
Eliminate unnecessary stimulation: Introverts often feel drained by busy environments, bright lights, and information overload. Turn off your digital devices towards the end of the day and enjoy some peaceful meditation. You could even head out to spend some time in nature.
Don’t avoid others: Contrary to popular belief, introverts treasure their close relationships and need frequent affirmations of love and care to feel happy and satisfied. Feeling lonely? Schedule a night in with your bestie.
2. Extrovert
Get involved in your local community: If the drudgery of work and everyday life has left you feeling distanced from your local community, why not volunteer or hold a community event? Whether you’re helping the homeless or reading to older folks, the experience will leave you feeling invigorated.
Don’t feel guilty about venting to friends: Some extroverts feel guilty about unloading their problems onto friends, but the experience could help you bond. Just try not to dominate the conversation.
Embrace the power of meditation: Many extroverts turn their nose up at the idea of meditation. However, listening to your breath and clearing your mind could help you control your more impulsive side and prevent you from engaging in risky behavior. It takes practice, but it’ll be worth it!
Explore the world: Extroverts love stimulation, and taking a long, aimless walk is a great way to enjoy new experiences safely and affordably.
3. Ambiverts
Our advice for ambiverts is to consider all the above! Depending on how you’re feeling on a given day, you may be more inclined to spend time with a small group of friends, throw a big party, or get into bed with a good book. Listen to your body, and don’t feel pressured to attend events just because you’ve been invited.
There’s never been a more important time to stay in tune with our introverted and extroverted tendencies. After a tough year of social distancing, many of us are itching to go out and socialize. Others, however, are feeling a little anxious about the prospect, and this is perfectly normal. As things move back to some semblance of normality, just remember to be kind to yourself and your personality traits. They’re what make you an individual, after all!