Are you an introvert? If so, you’re in good company. Introversion is one of the most common personality traits, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. On the contrary, there are plenty of things to love about being an introvert. But a few misconceptions about introversion also need to be cleared up. So here’s what you need to know about introversion.
What is Introversion?
Social situations are essential to every person. It’s a time when they can let loose, be themselves, and enjoy the company of others. However, for introverts, socializing can be incredibly draining.
It’s not that they don’t want to socialize. It’s just that being around people for too long can be overwhelming. This is because introverts are more sensitive to stimulation than extroverts. But why is it like this for introverts? Let’s first explore one of the few personality scales that mentioned it, and that is Eysenck’s Personality Test (EPI)
Eysenck’s Personality Inventory
Hans Eysenck is a psychologist who devoted his life to studying personality. In order to measure personality, he created what is known as the Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI). This test measures three different trait dimensions:
Neuroticism–Stability (N)
The first dimension is neuroticism–stability. Neurotic people are more prone to anxiety and stress, while stable people are more even-keeled.
Psychoticism–Sociability (P)
The second dimension is psychoticism–sociability. Psychotic people are more aggressive and antisocial, while sociable people are more cooperative and outgoing.
Extraversion–Introversion (E)
The third dimension is extraversion–introversion. Extraverts are people who are outgoing and sociable, while introverts are more reserved and prefer to spend time alone.
Introverts might prefer to stay alone, but that doesn’t mean they’re antisocial. On the contrary, many introverts are pretty social. They prefer smaller groups or one-on-one interactions. Being around people for too long can be draining for them.
What are the Benefits of Being an Introvert?
Despite the challenges of being an introvert, there are also plenty of benefits. Here are a few of the best things about being an introvert:
You’re more independent
Introverts tend to be more independent than extroverts. They’re used to spending time alone and are comfortable doing things independently.
You’re a good listener
Since introverts spend more time alone, they’re used to entertaining themselves. This means they’re usually good at listening to others and giving them the attention they deserve. Moreover, they can be better in social situations than extroverts because they actually listen to the people talking to them.
You’re thoughtful
Introverts are often very thoughtful people. It’s because they have a lot of time to think about things when they’re alone. As a result, they tend to be good at problem-solving and making decisions.
When Does Being an Introvert Become a Problem?
Becoming an introvert is never a problem. It’s the mental disorders that you are vulnerable to that’s the problem. Introverts are vulnerable to certain disorders such as social anxiety and agoraphobia. Dealing with it is as simple as building meaningful relationships.
Creating Meaningful Relationships
As an introvert, it might be easy to forget that you need to socialize from time to time. This is because you’re used to spending time alone and comfortable doing things on your own. However, it’s important to remember that socializing is an integral part of life, and it’s something that you should make time for.
One of the best ways to socialize as an introvert is to create meaningful relationships. This means connecting with others. If you already have friends, why not level it up and be intimate with someone?
If you have problems doing this, a professional can help you out. Hiring a professional matchmaker can help you connect with someone with the same interests as you. It makes it easier to communicate with them, and who knows, They might pair you with a fellow introvert yourself! It’s a convenient way to start an intimate relationship as an introvert who’s still testing the waters.
Social Support
If you feel you’re becoming more anxious than usual and can’t talk to people, you might consider getting social support. Social support is when you speak to someone about your problems, and they help you out. Usually, you are with like-minded people who have the same experiences as you. So feel free to seek out one if you need help.
In the end, being an introvert is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s simply a personality trait that comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, it’s essential to focus on the positives and find ways to make the most of them.
