by Maggie Heath
Many people associate introversion with shyness, which is untrue. In fact, introverted people tend to simply find that they get more energy from being alone or in very small groups, as opposed to extroverts who find that large groups give them more energy. Because of this misconception about shyness, many people assume that they aren’t introverts when they actually are. Here are 15 signs that you’re an introvert, even if you hadn’t ever previously thought that you were.
1. You find crowds stressful.
Crowds are definitely not an introvert’s favorite place to be. Concerts, rallies, conferences, sports arenas: these can all be very uncomfortable places for an introvert.
2. You aren’t thrilled to meet new people.
This isn’t to say that you don’t make friends easily, but that sometimes meeting new people is a big drain on your energy. Simply keeping up a conversation with a new person is difficult, and you leave the conversation feeling drained.
3. You’re great at speeches, but not great afterwards.
Just because you’re an introvert, it doesn’t mean that you’re not outgoing and confident! It just means that you might be better at public speaking than the schmoozing that comes afterwards. You can give a great wedding toast, but mingling during the reception isn’t your style.
4. You’re friends with extroverts.
Opposites attract, right? Many introverts are friends with extroverts because this provides balance for both types of people. Sometimes, introverts need to be led out of their shells a bit, and extroverts need to recognize the benefits of a quiet night in.
5. You don’t like interviews (in the beginning).
Job interviews aren’t exactly an introvert’s favorite thing. However, introverts can be great at them! Going in, you might be nervous, but once you get to know your interviewer a little better, you’re able to really hit it off.
6. You’re a loyal friend.
Introverts tend to be very loyal and honest people. Because introverts’ energy comes from themselves, and not from others, it’s easy to be honest and up front with your friends.
7. You like doing nothing sometimes.
Extroverts are always going from one thing to another, but introverts see the value in a quiet night in every once in a while. Just doing nothing is a way for you to relax and re-energize.
8. You wait to text back.
You aren’t glued to your phone all the time. When you do see that you have a text from a friend, you wait until you’re ready to read it and respond. After all, you like to do things at your own pace.
9. You don’t trust easily.
For introverts, it can be difficult finding friends who respect your introverted nature. So when you do start becoming chummy with someone, you might take a little longer than an extrovert when it comes to trusting that person. Often, this means you won’t get hurt as often as an extrovert, and your friends are people you can really count on.
10. You write.
Many introverts are writers of some kind. They often pursue careers in writing, or prefer to spend their free time writing for fun. Writing is a way for you to really connect to yourself, so it’s a way to recharge.
11. You’re courteous.
Often, introverts are more mindful of their surroundings and perceptive to small details. This makes you a courteous guest and host, and people love having you around.
12. You plan ahead.
While extroverts may like to fly by the seat of their pants, that’s not usually what introverts are like. You probably plan things out so that everything runs smoothly and with no issues. This can be anything from a camping trip to running errands, but having a plan is key.
13. You’ve got an old soul.
When you’re younger and an introvert, many people will say that you’ve got an old soul. Often, introverted tendencies are seen as maturity and wisdom. And who doesn’t want to seem wise?
14. You know what you like.
Introverts often know what they want and when they want it. It’s a definite perk to the trait. While you’re certainly not afraid to try new things, you’re never holding anyone up with your indecision.
15. You’re balanced.
Often, introverts keep a balance of alone time and socializing in different settings. Introverts often balance the two and go between them in order to be as energized as possible without sacrificing social time. This balance is actually great, as it gives you an opportunity to have fun without burning out.
(via Life Hack)
