Many people self-identify as either an introvert or an extrovert, swearing by these labels. However, rather than introversion and extroversion being mutually exclusive, these personality traits fall on a spectrum. While many people tend to assume that they are either introverts or extroverts, research suggests that most people are ambiverts.

What are they?

Introvert, extrovert, and ambivert are terms used in psychology to describe different personality traits and preferences related to social interaction. These terms are often associated with the concept of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and other personality theories. The MBTI test is a self-reported personality assessment. During the test, an individual answers 94 questions that evaluate preference toward four categories: Introversion-extroversion, sensing-intuition, thinking-feeling, and judging-perceiving. Depending on their responses, the MBTI classifies individuals into one of 16 personality types based on their self-reported preferences and behaviors. (“Introvert vs. Extrovert: What's The Difference?”)

Introverts

An introvert is typically reserved, reflective, and enjoys solitude, often preferring small groups over large crowds. While some may associate introversion with shyness or a preference for solitude, it's a nuanced personality trait that varies in intensity among individuals, with psychologists viewing it as a spectrum. Introverts typically fall into one of four subtypes: Social introverts, the "classic" type, who prefer small groups and quiet settings; Thinking introverts, characterized by daydreaming and creative imagination; Anxious introverts, who seek solitude due to feeling awkward or shy around others; and Restrained/inhibited introverts, who deliberate before acting and are less likely to make impulsive decisions, often taking longer to take action.

Soft skills commonly found in introverts are deep thinking, active listening, and independence. Introverts often excel in thinking profoundly and introspectively, which can lead to insightful solutions and ideas. They are generally good listeners, paying attention to details and understanding others' perspectives. Introverts are often self-sufficient and can work well on tasks that require focus and concentration. To branch out of their comfort zones, introverts can engage in activities such as joining small discussion groups or clubs to improve social interaction for social introverts, practicing public speaking or participating in creative exercises to enhance communication skills and confidence for anxious introverts, seeking out mindfulness practices or journaling to manage over thinking tendencies and promote self-awareness for thinking introverts, and setting incremental goals or participating in team projects to develop decision-making and assertiveness skills for restrained/inhibited introverts

Extroverts

An extrovert is often characterized by expressive and outgoing patterns of behavior. Extroverted people are very talkative, sociable, active, and warm. Extroverts are defined as energized by the external world and social interactions. Someone who presents as an extrovert may have an outgoing personality and feel comfortable and even excited in large group settings. An extrovert may be characterized as a "people person" and have a wide range of friends to prove it. According to a well-known psychoanalyst named Carl Jung, there are four types of extroverts. Extroverted Sensors are easily stimulated by the senses, like sight and sound, while Extroverted Feelers are sensitive to the emotions of others. Extroverted Intuitives enjoy socializing and discussing abstract concepts, while Extroverted Thinkers are goal-oriented and make decisions quickly to achieve success.

Extroverts possess soft skills, which include communication, networking, and adaptability. They excel in verbal communication, connect easily with others, and are influential team players. Skilled at building-wide networks, extroverts navigate professional settings adeptly. Their adaptability allows them to quickly adjust to changing social environments. To further develop their soft skills, extroverts could engage in activities like actively listening to others to improve empathy and emotional intelligence for Extroverted Feelers, participating in group brainstorming sessions or networking events to enhance communication skills and broaden perspectives for Extroverted Intuitives, seeking leadership roles or project management opportunities to refine decision-making and delegation skills for Extroverted Thinkers, and participating in hands-on activities or outdoor adventures to channel their sensory experiences and cultivate mindfulness for Extroverted Sensors.

Ambiverts

Ambiverts occupy a unique position between extroversion and introversion, blending both qualities. They possess a dynamic ability to balance social interaction with solitude, adapting seamlessly to various social settings. Unlike introverts who prefer listening or extroverts who dominate conversations, ambiverts effortlessly engage in both roles. Their flexibility enables them to tailor their behavior according to individual needs and circumstances, exhibiting traits of outgoing introverts, antisocial extroverts, or social introverts as required. Outgoing introverts display sociability selectively, while antisocial extroverts prioritize solitary time for recharging. Social introverts adeptly switch between introverted and extroverted behaviors based on the situation, showcasing the multifaceted nature of ambiversion.

Soft skills found in ambiverts are flexibility, empathy, and moderation. Ambiverts can adapt their communication style based on the context, making them versatile in various social settings. They often understand and connect with both introverts and extroverts, making them empathetic and relatable. Ambiverts can balance social interaction and solitude, allowing them to navigate different scenarios effectively.

It's crucial to acknowledge that no one personality type is superior. Each possesses its uniqueness, offering valuable insights and strengths. It's common for individuals to fluctuate between extroversion and introversion depending on the context. These terms represent points along a spectrum, with individuals often displaying traits from both ends. Moreover, the development and honing of soft skills are accessible to all, regardless of their personality type. Such growth fosters significant personal and professional advancement. The key lies in embracing one's weak points and utilizing them to cultivate effective communication and meaningful interpersonal relationships, thereby driving overall growth and achievement.

Works Cited

“5 Signs You’re an Ambivert, the Introvert-Extrovert Mix.” Mindbodygreen, 28 Apr. 2020, www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/ambivert-meaning-and-signs.

Cambridge Dictionary. “Ambivert.” @CambridgeWords, 12 Oct. 2022, dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/ambivert.

Cherry, Kendra. “5 Personality Traits of Extroverts.” Verywell Mind, 17 Apr. 2014, www.verywellmind.com/signs-you-are-an-extrovert-2795426 .

---. “8 Signs You’re an Introvert.” Verywell Mind, Verywellmind, 29 Nov. 2013, www.verywellmind.com/signs-you-are-an-introvert-2795427 .

“Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): A Beginner’s Guide.” Forbes Health, 5 Jan. 2024, www.forbes.com/health/mind/myers-briggs-personality-test/#:~:text=The%20MBTI%20test%20is%20a.

Psychology Today. “Extroversion | Psychology Today.” Psychology Today, 2019, www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/extroversion.