Should I Be an Introvert or an Extrovert?

Introversion and extroversion are dimensions of personality that should not be compared in the sense that one is better than the other. Each trait comes with its unique strengths and weaknesses, and individuals should work on developing the aspects that resonate best with them. It is essential to focus on enhancing the positive attributes associated with your personality type while minimizing the negative impacts. The comparison should be between someone who has nurtured and grown their strength and is prepared for its challenges versus someone who may not have put in the same effort.

Supporting Your Natural Self

Just as in any other aspect of life, you should support and embrace who you are—whether you are an introvert or an extrovert. True happiness often comes from self-acceptance and working with your inherent traits rather than constantly striving to change.

Understanding Your Personality

Introverts and extroverts both have their advantages. Each personality type excels in different areas due to the presence of four extraverted cognitive functions and four introverted cognitive functions. Being skilled in any of these functions is an extraordinary ability, while being unskilled in any of them can be a significant challenge. However, it is a human reality that we cannot fully develop all eight functions within our lifetime.

Neither Better Nor Worse

Neither personality type is inherently better or worse. They are simply different ways of experiencing the world, each with its own set of pros and cons. Comparing them is unnecessary and can be detrimental to personal growth. Instead, individuals should focus on leveraging their strengths and mitigating the potential drawbacks associated with their natural inclination.

My Journey from Introvert to Ambivert

IWonder: What line are you standing in? Where are you getting these options as choices...

Shared Experience: I started as an introvert. From a young age, I never felt the need to talk unnecessarily, even during my childhood. I found joy in solitude and preferred to avoid social gatherings. However, as I grew and realized that life is short and should be lived fully, I decided to embrace a more extroverted persona to diversify my experience. Through years of conscious effort, I have been able to adopt some extroverted traits while maintaining my comfort with introspection. It feels incredibly rewarding to engage in conversations or meet new people, and this journey of self-discovery has been worth it.

Embracing Ambiversion

Becoming ambivert allows you to find a balance between the world and your own inner peace. Enjoying both external social interactions and internal relaxation is crucial for a well-rounded life. By exploring different aspects of your personality, you can lead a more fulfilling life, where you can thrive in various social settings while also finding solace in solitude.

While the journey from one extreme to another can be challenging, it is ultimately rewarding. Whether you are an introvert, an extrovert, or an ambivert, the key is to understand and embrace your nature.