Who is the extroverted introvert? They are known as Ambiverts and are thought to possess both the characteristics of both introverts and extroverts. This seems like the perfect balance, right?
The Ambivert is said to have both traits found in the quieter introvert and the more outgoing extrovert. They find a balance in how all this harmonizes to be one. This can seem quite challenging and impressive for a good number of reasons.
Characteristics of the Extroverted Introvert
The introvert builds energy from being alone and recharging from social encounters. This is how they function and go about their lives and activities. The introvert would require a much longer time recharging after socializing for a while.
However, this is the complete opposite for the more extroverted personality type. Extroverts get their energy from the outside world. Their energy comes from socializing and interacting with people.
The extrovert is considered to be more fun and outgoing than the introvert. Introverts tend to be mistaken as snobs and sometimes anti-social. But it is important to remember that one is a personality trait and the other is a mental health issue.
Unlike extroverts, introverts are thought to be more reserved, analytical, withdrawn, and boring. Extroverts are characterized as being more fun-loving and lovable people. So how does the Ambivert come into play?
Ambiverts tend to sway according to the people around them. They bring up their introverted or extroverted side depending on the circumstances they find themselves in. They can be both reserved and fun-loving.
The idea of fun for an Ambivert can range from a quiet evening at home or an evening at the bar. It is important to note both introversion and extroversion exist in a spectrum. And it completely depends on how far a person goes to a side of the spectrum.
The Ambivert tends to sit just in the middle of that spectrum. Making them extroverted introverts. In this case, they might have a slightly higher extroverted side but it doesn’t eliminate their introversion.
Is Being An Extroverted Introvert Common?
How common are Ambiverts in our society? It is important to know that people do not choose their personality types. This is a result of their upbringing and their childhood. They tend to carry this into adulthood as well.
The environment plays a huge role in deciding a person’s personality as well as their genetics. Children with more introverted parents/caregivers would more likely be introverted as well.
It is difficult and almost impossible for a person’s personality type to drastically change to the opposite side of the spectrum. There are more chances of them exhibiting more of Ambiversion than not.
As adults, humans tend to lean into the personality that helps them get their jobs done but this is never too far from their own personalities. The Ambivert is a perfect mix of both introverts and extroverts. It is unfair to classify them as more of one and erase the existence of their other side.
Benefits of Being An Extroverted Introvert
There are quite a number of benefits in being Ambiverted. Some of these include:
1. Versatility
The extroverted introvert is known to possess both analytic skills and people skills. They have the charisma and mysterious aura to them that makes them the perfect candidate for a lot of positions.
This makes them great leaders as they tend to understand every kind of person they have to work with. The Ambivert offers a versatility that is second to none.
2. Flexibility
The Ambivert can be outgoing or withdrawn when they need to be. Their personality trait makes them easily adaptable to situations. Also gives them an added advantage at problem-solving.
A challenge most introverted people face is expressing themselves but the Ambivert doesn’t have to go through this. They know how to maneuver a situation to work for them.
3. Relatable
Being able to relate to both ends of the personality spectrum makes the Ambivert truly special. They tend to be relatable and more approachable than other personality types. Making them the go-to at work and with their friends.
All these and many more make the extroverted Ambivert incredible but what challenges do they face?
Challenges of Being an Ambivert
Everything that has an advantage usually comes with a disadvantage. They might seem to be at an advantage but what struggles do they face?
Identity Crisis is one problem that the extroverted introvert faces are an identity crisis as it becomes hard to choose a side when asked to. They have to understand they are neither introverted nor extroverted but instead a whole other personality of their own.
Forcing themselves to be part of either the introverted or extroverted side never ends well. People also find it difficult to read them and this can leave them frustrated. It makes it harder to know what gift to give them or what kind of dates they prefer.
However, the most common challenge an ambivert faces is the war of identity crisis in their heads.
Aleruchi is a photographer, writer, designer and an INTJ female. She enjoys telling stories and delivering messages through words, photographs and designs.
