What is an introvert? 

When someone asks you to describe an introvert, your thoughts might go to the most reserved and thoughtful person you know. Maybe you think of the friend who mostly avoids special attention and social engagements, or the sibling who prefers to occupy a quiet corner with a book or the family dog. 

But what if you’re the one who prefers a quiet night at home to a crowded party? Maybe you feel exhausted and drained after interacting with anyone other than a close friend or two. If so, you might have started to wonder whether you’re an introvert yourself. 

Introversion itself isn’t a measurable personality trait, as such. Rather, introversion refers to low levels of extroversion (originally referred to as extraversion; a person with extraversion traits was referred to as an extravert). 

Extroversion is one of the Big Five personality traits. People with higher levels of extroversion tend to: 

• seek out social interaction and conversations

• thrive in busy environments

• have a more outgoing nature

• express themselves easily

• enjoy being in a crowd

• act more impulsively

• avoid spending time alone 

Since introversion lies on the other end of the spectrum, it tends to have the opposite characteristics. Introverts generally: 

• do better in quiet environments

• enjoy spending time alone

• show more reservation than enthusiasm in social settings 

Being shy and being introverted are often used interchangeably. But many introverts do not define their personality as shy. Instead, introverts will tell you they can indeed interact and socialize comfortably with others, but it’s just not their preference. 

The intro in the term introvert is the key. Introverts are typically very introspective : they spend a good deal of time in self-analysis. They examine their own thoughts, preferences, perceptions, and observations to gauge their life’s direction and make life choices.. 


Signs You Might Be an Introvert 

Around one-third to one-half of all people in India are introverts. Though it looks different in everyone, introverts have many of the same patterns of behavior. In general, introverts: 

• Need quiet to concentrate

• Are reflective

• Are self-aware

• Take time making decisions

• Feel comfortable being alone

• Don't like group work

• Prefer to write rather than talk

• Feel tired after being in a crowd

• Have few friendships, but are very close with these friends

• Daydream or use their imaginations to work out a problem

• Retreat into their own mind to rest



Types of Introverts 

Being an introvert isn't an all-or-nothing stamp on your personality. Psychologists think of introverts as falling somewhere on a scale. Some people are more introverted than others. Other people fall right in the middle of the scale. They're called ambiverts.

One study shows that introverts tend to fall into one of four subtypes: 

1. Social introverts - This is the "classic" type of introvert. Social introverts like small groups and quiet settings over crowds. 

2. Thinking introverts - People in this group are daydreamers. They spend a lot of time in their thoughts and tend to have creative imaginations. 

3. Anxious introverts - They seek out alone time not just because they like it, but also because they often feel awkward or shy around people. 

4. Restrained/inhibited introverts - These introverts think before they act. They aren't likely to make a decision on a whim. Typically they take longer to take action. 

Your introverted ways may change over time, and in different settings, too. You're not likely to swing from introvert to extrovert. But it's possible you could become more or less introverted, depending on what's going on in your life.


5 Ways That Help Introverts To Develop A Strong Personality 

•  Self-Acceptance—“ If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it!  ” -

The first piece of advice to introverts who aim to develop a forceful personality is to accept your personality type and work with it. Don’t try to change the basic tenets of your personality.

You don’t need to become an extrovert. Don’t try to become a social butterfly or the life of the party! Any such attempt is bound to explode at some point, as it will take way too much effort and energy to keep up the facade.

Instead, mold the star qualities you possess. Work hard to strengthen your positive characteristics and keep your weaknesses in check. Become an expert in areas you care about. 

•  Take advantage of your innate ability to listen actively -

Another way that introverts can quietly become take-charge leaders and display a strong personality is by using active listening .

Active listening is the ability to focus full attention on what is being communicated, such that you remember all of it and can ask questions. This ensures you have a full understanding of the information presented and its intent.

This shows the person you are interacting with that you are engaged and aware of what they are trying to communicate; building trust and alliance. 

•  Prepare but stop over-thinking or over-analyzing situations -

Introverts will admit that they are not spontaneous individuals. Instead, they respond more effectively when they can prepare and plan. This is strength, so use it!

Document your ideas, thoughts, and concerns. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to analyze your efforts. Map out the steps that lead to “how” for those things you desire to accomplish. But remain cognizant so that you don’t go overboard or get mired in details and stress on potential obstacles.

When your analysis gets too complicated, breathe. Step away from it, and remind yourself that simple is best. Still, be sure to prepare as much.

•  Build a small but strong support circle -

Introverts prefer one-on-one interactions or small group socializing. So, solidify and bolster advocacy by using some skills we previously discussed (active listening, expertise building, and preparation ).

You should take hold of every opportunity for individual exchange to sort out those with whom you are most comfortable, and with whom (based on your assessment ) you are not only compatible with, but feel a natural affinity.

Once you have done that, cultivate strong relationships with these individuals . 

•  Be present – don’t isolate yourself -

Recharging andreplenishing are activities that many introverts need to do in solitude so that they do not become overwhelmed.

The recharging effort helps bring introverts back to a calm state where they feel rejuvenated and ready to face the ongoing challenge of socializing and interacting in a group or social situations.

Introverts should try to set specific recharge times and opportunities for themselves. But you must be honest with yourself and never use the need to recharge to avoid interaction or socializing. While your solitude is necessary, you have too much to offer to hide out from wor.



 "Don’t underestimate me because I’m quiet. I know more than I say, think more than I speak and observe more than you know."

- Michaela Chung



To conclude, introverts are normal people who just need more private space and time for thoughts and analyzing. They can communicate with others, but feel better at home in their own space with people they know and feel safe with.




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