Introvert vs Shy? Have you ever wondered if they are one and the same thing? Introverts are usually categorized as shy but the truth is, they are not one and the same. Although some introverts can possess shyness, many of them don’t. Sometimes even extroverts get shy too.
Being an introvert and being shy are undoubtedly two different things. The opposite of shyness is being outgoing while the opposite of an introvert is an extrovert. Now the reason for this misconception is quite understandable.
Extroverts are a lot more outgoing than introverts who like to stay more in their space and let just a few people in. Their seclusion from events and different types of socializing can come off as fear.
Introvert vs Shy: Understanding The Key Differences
Introversion refers to the tendency of being overstimulated by external factors while needing a lot of alone time to recharge. An introvert requires alone time to function properly and the longer they go without it, it could lead to a burn out. Introverts don’t mind socializing every once in a while but they keep it at a minimum because they physically and mentally can’t keep up with it.
Shyness is more of a milder form of anxiety associated with fear of being around certain scenarios. Shy people have this fear of being judged . Just being around people is enough to make them nervous and this tends to affect their lives greatly.
Just like anxiety, shy people tend to have little to no control over this feeling. It can leave them selectively mute, sweating and shaking because of other people around them. Some shy people want to have more friends and a more social life but is being held back because of their fear of being judged amongst other things.
An introvert however doesn’t exactly seek to increase their social life because they usually don’t see the point. But what happens to the shy introvert? Are you really an introvert or are you shy?
Introvert vs Shy: Which Are You?
It might be confusing for shy people who do not want to be introverted but have no choice because of their anxiety. Or introverts who aren’t shy and are tired of being categorized as that. Here are ways to help you determine which you are.
• An introvert wouldn’t mind going for social functions because instead of fear of other people, they just fear being overwhelmed. Shy people might want to attend but the fear of being judged by people can hold them back.
• Introverts aren’t afraid of being alone. In fact they don’t mind it and tend to be most of the time. Shy people might have this fear of. being alone if they aren’t really introverted.
• Lots of introverts do not mind not being the social butterfly in their lifetime. In fact they might dread it. Shy people might want to but don’t know how to go about it.
• Introversion is more of a preference than being shy.
How To Overcome Shyness
Being shy can be a terrible hindrance to personal development. Overcoming shyness and anxiety is definitely not a day’s job. It requires determination and the right information and people by your side. Here are a few ways in overcoming shyness.
1. Identify Your Key Problems
What triggers your anxiety and shyness? Is it fear of the way you look, walk or talk? Identifying what your main problem is helps you know what exactly you’re working on.
2. Practice With People You Know
Being shy usually revolves around social behaviors and not knowing how to input them. Practicing your body language, eye contact and small talk with people you know makes you a little more comfortable. This is a great way to build your confidence.
3. Give Yourself A Chance
You can practice all you want but without giving yourself a chance to try and fail, you wouldn’t grow. It can be hard but give yourself a chance to go out and practice with other people. Even if it fails, go home, practice some more and try again. Constantly worrying would only keep you from trying.
Introvert vs Shy: Conclusion
Shy people tend to be overly concerned about what other people think of them, how they react to their social behaviors and so on. This isn’t the same for introverts who just want to be away from people because it drains their social battery.
There are people who fall into both groups but it is important to know it’s not exclusive.
Aleruchi is a photographer, writer, designer and an INTJ female. She enjoys telling stories and delivering messages through words, photographs and designs.
