Question of the Day: Introvert or Extrovert?

by Mandi on July 1, 2010

introvert versus extrovert

source: Bichuas (E. Carton)

A while back, we talked about understanding your personality and discovering whether you were a task-oriented or people-oriented person. Today, I want to talk about introvert versus extrovert.

Contrary to popular belief, these personalities aren’t defined by how comfortable you are in social situations. An introvert can actually be very friendly and outgoing, and an extrovert can be shy and reserved in new social situations.

What really defines these personality types is whether you draw your energy from being with groups of people (extroverts) or from being alone (introverts). Introverts tend to have smaller circles of friends, spend more time by themselves and live inside their heads. Extroverts tend to surround themselves with people and have many close friends, and they often problem solve by thinking out loud.

So today I want to know…

Are you an extrovert or an introvert?

When you’re looking to relax and recharge, do you make plans to go out with a bunch of people or do you grab a good book and find a place to curl up with it by yourself?

Do you feel energized or wiped out after spending time with a group of people or does it leave you energized?

Do you get antsy if you spend too much time alone or does it leave you ready to tackle anything?

Looking forward to reading your comments, and I’ll answer the question there as well!

Mandi Ehman at Organizing Your Way


  • Mandi Ehman

    I am most definitely an introvert. I have a small circle of close friends, and I spend most of my time at home. If I need a break, I love to curl up with a good book by myself.

    That’s not to say I don’t enjoy going out with friends, but I definitely think this need to be by myself is one reason I get up so early in the morning. It’s a great opportunity for me to get ready to face the day and recharge my batteries before people start talking to me or needing things from me!

  • Mandi Ehman

    I am most definitely an introvert. I have a small circle of close friends, and I spend most of my time at home. If I need a break, I love to curl up with a good book by myself.

    That’s not to say I don’t enjoy going out with friends, but I definitely think this need to be by myself is one reason I get up so early in the morning. It’s a great opportunity for me to get ready to face the day and recharge my batteries before people start talking to me or needing things from me!

  • Mandi Ehman

    I am most definitely an introvert. I have a small circle of close friends, and I spend most of my time at home. If I need a break, I love to curl up with a good book by myself.

    That’s not to say I don’t enjoy going out with friends, but I definitely think this need to be by myself is one reason I get up so early in the morning. It’s a great opportunity for me to get ready to face the day and recharge my batteries before people start talking to me or needing things from me!

  • shris

    Introvert, by any definition. :)

    Alone time is definitely what I need to recharge. I can handle a crowd for a little while, but the sigh of relief comes when I can shut them out, either by retreating to my bedroom or when they go home. Even the 5-year-old twins can trigger sensory overload.

    I have recently realized that games of solitaire on the computer are like meditating for me. I can unwind and process while I move the cards around, and get back my equilibrium if it’s been a rough day.

    Interpersonal relationships are a source of angst I have to take in measured doses. :)

    shris

  • shris

    Introvert, by any definition. :)

    Alone time is definitely what I need to recharge. I can handle a crowd for a little while, but the sigh of relief comes when I can shut them out, either by retreating to my bedroom or when they go home. Even the 5-year-old twins can trigger sensory overload.

    I have recently realized that games of solitaire on the computer are like meditating for me. I can unwind and process while I move the cards around, and get back my equilibrium if it’s been a rough day.

    Interpersonal relationships are a source of angst I have to take in measured doses. :)

    shris

  • shris

    Introvert, by any definition. :)

    Alone time is definitely what I need to recharge. I can handle a crowd for a little while, but the sigh of relief comes when I can shut them out, either by retreating to my bedroom or when they go home. Even the 5-year-old twins can trigger sensory overload.

    I have recently realized that games of solitaire on the computer are like meditating for me. I can unwind and process while I move the cards around, and get back my equilibrium if it’s been a rough day.

    Interpersonal relationships are a source of angst I have to take in measured doses. :)

    shris

  • Lori H

    I am definately an introvert. My good friend is an extrovert, and she feels energized by being around people, the more the better! I am the opposite, drained by people and recovering in solitude. Glad that we have both types of people!

  • Lori H

    I am definately an introvert. My good friend is an extrovert, and she feels energized by being around people, the more the better! I am the opposite, drained by people and recovering in solitude. Glad that we have both types of people!

  • Lori H

    I am definately an introvert. My good friend is an extrovert, and she feels energized by being around people, the more the better! I am the opposite, drained by people and recovering in solitude. Glad that we have both types of people!

  • http://www.newbyathome.blogspot.com Catie

    This is so interesting! I used to think that the introvert/extrovert thing was defined by how comfortable you were in social situations – which is probably true in some cases, but aside from this blog, I’d heard someone else say a while back that introverts “recharge” by being alone and extroverts by being around people! (basically what you said) I had never thought of it that way before – so interesting! :)

    That said, I’m most definitely an extrovert and my hubby is an introvert through and through. That’s usually how it goes, isn’t it? Opposites attract! :)
    .-= Catie´s last blog ..The Little Garden That Could =-.

  • http://www.newbyathome.blogspot.com Catie

    This is so interesting! I used to think that the introvert/extrovert thing was defined by how comfortable you were in social situations – which is probably true in some cases, but aside from this blog, I’d heard someone else say a while back that introverts “recharge” by being alone and extroverts by being around people! (basically what you said) I had never thought of it that way before – so interesting! :)

    That said, I’m most definitely an extrovert and my hubby is an introvert through and through. That’s usually how it goes, isn’t it? Opposites attract! :)
    .-= Catie´s last blog ..The Little Garden That Could =-.

  • http://www.newbyathome.blogspot.com Catie

    This is so interesting! I used to think that the introvert/extrovert thing was defined by how comfortable you were in social situations – which is probably true in some cases, but aside from this blog, I’d heard someone else say a while back that introverts “recharge” by being alone and extroverts by being around people! (basically what you said) I had never thought of it that way before – so interesting! :)

    That said, I’m most definitely an extrovert and my hubby is an introvert through and through. That’s usually how it goes, isn’t it? Opposites attract! :)
    .-= Catie´s last blog ..The Little Garden That Could =-.

  • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

    Without a doubt, I am an introvert. I get recharged when I am either alone or in a very small group. When I’m in a very large crowd for a long time, my energy gets depleted and I get exhausted. Now I understand why. This topic was very interesting and i’m beginning to think that my one friend, who I always thought was an extrovert, is actually introverted. She thought so, as well. This will blow her mind when I share this info with her. :)
    .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      I think understanding introvert/extrovert is important because it helps us define that need to be by ourselves and gives us the confidence to put more boundaries in place to make sure we’re getting it. It doesn’t mean you’re being antisocial, selfish or rude when you need time by yourself…just that you’re taking care of a basic biological need!

      • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

        Mandi, I completely agree with you. I think I’ll have to forward your comment to my brother, who is 4 years older than me. growing up he called me antisocial and it drove me crazy! LOL!
        .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

        • http://www.notjustcute.com Amanda

          Mandi-
          This reminds me of our conversation the other day! I love people and gatherings, but I think at my core I am an introvert. Solitude is what I need when I want to recharge and refocus…..and I find that I need that a lot more often than I really get it! I like your explanation of the dichotomy!

          • Tiffany

            Love the picture! I’m new to reading your blog and I’m really enjoying it, especially your interviews with work at home moms. And I bought your ebook and I’m working my through it. Wonderful stuff! So glad I found you.

          • http://profiles.google.com/stephaniesmommybrain Stephanie’s Mommy Brain

            Love the picture! Thanks for sharing your stats. I always wonder about the stats on “big” blogs but so few bloggers share that info. Thanks!

      • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

        I’m definitely an introvert who NEEDS my alone time. Quiet time to read or write (blog) recharges my batteries and allows me to stay sane.

        Ironically, I’d guess that many people who call me an extrovert. I work as the Activity Coordinator in a nursing home, and I’m fine with leading group activities, socializing with residents and families, etc. I’m not shy or reserved… and I enjoy my job… but by the end of the day, I’m exhausted!

        • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

          * many people who *know me would* call me….

          (I should proofread before sending, LOL!)
          .-= Amy @ Tiny Blessings´s last blog ..Menu Plan Tuesday =-.

  • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

    Without a doubt, I am an introvert. I get recharged when I am either alone or in a very small group. When I’m in a very large crowd for a long time, my energy gets depleted and I get exhausted. Now I understand why. This topic was very interesting and i’m beginning to think that my one friend, who I always thought was an extrovert, is actually introverted. She thought so, as well. This will blow her mind when I share this info with her. :)
    .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      I think understanding introvert/extrovert is important because it helps us define that need to be by ourselves and gives us the confidence to put more boundaries in place to make sure we’re getting it. It doesn’t mean you’re being antisocial, selfish or rude when you need time by yourself…just that you’re taking care of a basic biological need!

      • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

        Mandi, I completely agree with you. I think I’ll have to forward your comment to my brother, who is 4 years older than me. growing up he called me antisocial and it drove me crazy! LOL!
        .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

  • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

    Without a doubt, I am an introvert. I get recharged when I am either alone or in a very small group. When I’m in a very large crowd for a long time, my energy gets depleted and I get exhausted. Now I understand why. This topic was very interesting and i’m beginning to think that my one friend, who I always thought was an extrovert, is actually introverted. She thought so, as well. This will blow her mind when I share this info with her. :)
    .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      I think understanding introvert/extrovert is important because it helps us define that need to be by ourselves and gives us the confidence to put more boundaries in place to make sure we’re getting it. It doesn’t mean you’re being antisocial, selfish or rude when you need time by yourself…just that you’re taking care of a basic biological need!

      • http://naturecanopy.typepad.com/lilolu/ Jackie@Lilolu

        Mandi, I completely agree with you. I think I’ll have to forward your comment to my brother, who is 4 years older than me. growing up he called me antisocial and it drove me crazy! LOL!
        .-= Jackie@Lilolu´s last blog ..Grateful Heart =-.

  • Lynn

    About 10 years ago I took a Meyers-Briggs test and I was an extrovert. Now after getting married and having children I am definitely an introvert. I get pulled in so many directions that I need to recharge by being by myself. Its funny because my SIL is a total extrovert and is never home or by herself and I just cringe when I think of being like that. Its interesting how your blog readers are mostly introverts (so far at least)…wonder if that is a pattern or a fluke?

    • Mandi Ehman

      LOL, Lynn — I wonder the same thing about some people. I could never go out on playdates every day and stuff like that, but those same people probably can’t imagine not leaving their house for 4 or 5 days!

  • Lynn

    About 10 years ago I took a Meyers-Briggs test and I was an extrovert. Now after getting married and having children I am definitely an introvert. I get pulled in so many directions that I need to recharge by being by myself. Its funny because my SIL is a total extrovert and is never home or by herself and I just cringe when I think of being like that. Its interesting how your blog readers are mostly introverts (so far at least)…wonder if that is a pattern or a fluke?

    • Mandi Ehman

      LOL, Lynn — I wonder the same thing about some people. I could never go out on playdates every day and stuff like that, but those same people probably can’t imagine not leaving their house for 4 or 5 days!

  • Lynn

    About 10 years ago I took a Meyers-Briggs test and I was an extrovert. Now after getting married and having children I am definitely an introvert. I get pulled in so many directions that I need to recharge by being by myself. Its funny because my SIL is a total extrovert and is never home or by herself and I just cringe when I think of being like that. Its interesting how your blog readers are mostly introverts (so far at least)…wonder if that is a pattern or a fluke?

    • Mandi Ehman

      LOL, Lynn — I wonder the same thing about some people. I could never go out on playdates every day and stuff like that, but those same people probably can’t imagine not leaving their house for 4 or 5 days!

  • maria

    One more introvert joining in. The subject is most interesting (thank you, Mandi) and has been in my thoughts quite a lot recently as I just realized I am the only one in my family that is recharging by being alone. DH and DD are both extrovert and do not quite understand my need to be alone sometimes (regularly!), if not, I become very easily irritated :-) ) And the lovely guys are always at home when I am… so I just understood that I have to find some moments for myself otherwise I am going nuts. Especially DD is very talkative and always searching someone to talk to, I do love to watch her often, how she shines when in contact with people, any people really. As to me I love my small circle of friends as many of you also wrote, but sometimes am too energy-drained even to see them, when having this extrovert company always around at home.

    So there you go, I really let it all out here in your comments, Mandi, sorry…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I understand this completely, Maria!

      In the past, I’ve made plans with friends for an evening, and then by the time the evening rolls around, I really can’t imagine going out to spend time with people.

      • http://theadventureofmotherhood.blogspot.com Janna @ The Adventure of Mothe

        I decided to guess which one you were before looking and I was right! I mean, I don’t think many extroverts would want to live as far out of the city as you do.

        As for me introvert. I’m all about quite moments, and finding cozy corners, to meditate and refresh. I really liked your clarification at the beginning too.
        .-= Janna @ The Adventure of Motherhood´s last blog ..She Enjoys Being a Girl =-.

  • maria

    One more introvert joining in. The subject is most interesting (thank you, Mandi) and has been in my thoughts quite a lot recently as I just realized I am the only one in my family that is recharging by being alone. DH and DD are both extrovert and do not quite understand my need to be alone sometimes (regularly!), if not, I become very easily irritated :-) ) And the lovely guys are always at home when I am… so I just understood that I have to find some moments for myself otherwise I am going nuts. Especially DD is very talkative and always searching someone to talk to, I do love to watch her often, how she shines when in contact with people, any people really. As to me I love my small circle of friends as many of you also wrote, but sometimes am too energy-drained even to see them, when having this extrovert company always around at home.

    So there you go, I really let it all out here in your comments, Mandi, sorry…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I understand this completely, Maria!

      In the past, I’ve made plans with friends for an evening, and then by the time the evening rolls around, I really can’t imagine going out to spend time with people.

  • maria

    One more introvert joining in. The subject is most interesting (thank you, Mandi) and has been in my thoughts quite a lot recently as I just realized I am the only one in my family that is recharging by being alone. DH and DD are both extrovert and do not quite understand my need to be alone sometimes (regularly!), if not, I become very easily irritated :-) ) And the lovely guys are always at home when I am… so I just understood that I have to find some moments for myself otherwise I am going nuts. Especially DD is very talkative and always searching someone to talk to, I do love to watch her often, how she shines when in contact with people, any people really. As to me I love my small circle of friends as many of you also wrote, but sometimes am too energy-drained even to see them, when having this extrovert company always around at home.

    So there you go, I really let it all out here in your comments, Mandi, sorry…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I understand this completely, Maria!

      In the past, I’ve made plans with friends for an evening, and then by the time the evening rolls around, I really can’t imagine going out to spend time with people.

  • Jeannine B.

    Okay – I am feeling a little “odd-man-out” – but, I am most definitely an extrovert! Although, I do enjoy (very often crave) time alone, without any outside distractions!

  • Jeannine B.

    Okay – I am feeling a little “odd-man-out” – but, I am most definitely an extrovert! Although, I do enjoy (very often crave) time alone, without any outside distractions!

  • Jeannine B.

    Okay – I am feeling a little “odd-man-out” – but, I am most definitely an extrovert! Although, I do enjoy (very often crave) time alone, without any outside distractions!

  • http://jennoreilly.wordpress.com Jenn

    Is it possible to be both? Sometimes I crave time by myself but other times I’d like nothing more that to head out with my friends for shopping lunch and a pedi. I don’t know, I guess it depends on what my days are like and if I’ve been stuck at home a lot then I want to get away from it all.
    .-= Jenn´s last blog ..Top Ten Reasons why Canada kicks ASS- =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Absolutely! I think there are many people who are equal parts introvert and extrovert!

  • http://jennoreilly.wordpress.com Jenn

    Is it possible to be both? Sometimes I crave time by myself but other times I’d like nothing more that to head out with my friends for shopping lunch and a pedi. I don’t know, I guess it depends on what my days are like and if I’ve been stuck at home a lot then I want to get away from it all.
    .-= Jenn´s last blog ..Top Ten Reasons why Canada kicks ASS- =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Absolutely! I think there are many people who are equal parts introvert and extrovert!

  • http://jennoreilly.wordpress.com Jenn

    Is it possible to be both? Sometimes I crave time by myself but other times I’d like nothing more that to head out with my friends for shopping lunch and a pedi. I don’t know, I guess it depends on what my days are like and if I’ve been stuck at home a lot then I want to get away from it all.
    .-= Jenn´s last blog ..Top Ten Reasons why Canada kicks ASS- =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Absolutely! I think there are many people who are equal parts introvert and extrovert!

  • Kris

    Oh, such an introvert!

    Love getting together with family/friends, but absolutely exhausts me. Have to have my “alone” time, or I can barely function.

  • Kris

    Oh, such an introvert!

    Love getting together with family/friends, but absolutely exhausts me. Have to have my “alone” time, or I can barely function.

  • Kris

    Oh, such an introvert!

    Love getting together with family/friends, but absolutely exhausts me. Have to have my “alone” time, or I can barely function.

  • http://www.heartchoices.com Debbie

    I love people but I also need my time alone. I took a test sometime ago and I was equally an extrovert and an introvert. I think it was the Meyers Briggs test but not sure.
    .-= Debbie´s last blog ..Word Filled Wednesday Hope =-.

  • http://www.heartchoices.com Debbie

    I love people but I also need my time alone. I took a test sometime ago and I was equally an extrovert and an introvert. I think it was the Meyers Briggs test but not sure.
    .-= Debbie´s last blog ..Word Filled Wednesday Hope =-.

  • http://www.heartchoices.com Debbie

    I love people but I also need my time alone. I took a test sometime ago and I was equally an extrovert and an introvert. I think it was the Meyers Briggs test but not sure.
    .-= Debbie´s last blog ..Word Filled Wednesday Hope =-.

  • Heidi

    I’m with Debbie & Jen on this…I’m a little both. I’ve always been a bit of a loner and I know that when I get stressed and can’t escape for some alone time, I just zone out. But I also need & crave time with my sisters & friends! Thanks for the thought-provoking post!

  • Heidi

    I’m with Debbie & Jen on this…I’m a little both. I’ve always been a bit of a loner and I know that when I get stressed and can’t escape for some alone time, I just zone out. But I also need & crave time with my sisters & friends! Thanks for the thought-provoking post!

  • Heidi

    I’m with Debbie & Jen on this…I’m a little both. I’ve always been a bit of a loner and I know that when I get stressed and can’t escape for some alone time, I just zone out. But I also need & crave time with my sisters & friends! Thanks for the thought-provoking post!

  • Melissa

    Extrovert… but a shy one. I think people are surprised to know I’m an extrovert because they think extrovert = outgoing. I am always quiet in new situations and around new people. But when I’m around people I know well, feel comfortable with, and love, I can go 90 to nothing. I definitely get my energy from other people. My husband is the opposite too. He is more outgoing, better at talking to “strangers,” but even being around our closest friends for very long, he gets tired. We laugh because anytime we are on the car ride home from a dinner out with our group of friends, I’m talking up a storm, feeling energized and excited. And he’s tired… wanting to withdrawal and rest…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I love that you and your husband are real-life examples of this, Melissa! Thanks so much for chiming in!

  • Melissa

    Extrovert… but a shy one. I think people are surprised to know I’m an extrovert because they think extrovert = outgoing. I am always quiet in new situations and around new people. But when I’m around people I know well, feel comfortable with, and love, I can go 90 to nothing. I definitely get my energy from other people. My husband is the opposite too. He is more outgoing, better at talking to “strangers,” but even being around our closest friends for very long, he gets tired. We laugh because anytime we are on the car ride home from a dinner out with our group of friends, I’m talking up a storm, feeling energized and excited. And he’s tired… wanting to withdrawal and rest…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I love that you and your husband are real-life examples of this, Melissa! Thanks so much for chiming in!

  • Melissa

    Extrovert… but a shy one. I think people are surprised to know I’m an extrovert because they think extrovert = outgoing. I am always quiet in new situations and around new people. But when I’m around people I know well, feel comfortable with, and love, I can go 90 to nothing. I definitely get my energy from other people. My husband is the opposite too. He is more outgoing, better at talking to “strangers,” but even being around our closest friends for very long, he gets tired. We laugh because anytime we are on the car ride home from a dinner out with our group of friends, I’m talking up a storm, feeling energized and excited. And he’s tired… wanting to withdrawal and rest…

    • Mandi Ehman

      I love that you and your husband are real-life examples of this, Melissa! Thanks so much for chiming in!

  • http://www.asimplewife.blogspot.com/ Chele’

    I’m a fairly balanced mix of both. Some days I need to curl up by myself to recharge and other days I need to recharge by standing in the middle of a crowd soaking up all the energy I can. Over the years I’ve learned that which one I need depends a lot on what my days have been like (if I’ve been frantically busy, if I’ve not been outside in 9 days, etc.) but are also influenced by my hormones shifts.

    • http://www.mangiodasola.com Memoria

      I’m indubitably an introvert who also suffers from social phobia.

      By the way, I love the photo you used for this post.

  • http://www.asimplewife.blogspot.com/ Chele’

    I’m a fairly balanced mix of both. Some days I need to curl up by myself to recharge and other days I need to recharge by standing in the middle of a crowd soaking up all the energy I can. Over the years I’ve learned that which one I need depends a lot on what my days have been like (if I’ve been frantically busy, if I’ve not been outside in 9 days, etc.) but are also influenced by my hormones shifts.

  • http://www.asimplewife.blogspot.com/ Chele’

    I’m a fairly balanced mix of both. Some days I need to curl up by myself to recharge and other days I need to recharge by standing in the middle of a crowd soaking up all the energy I can. Over the years I’ve learned that which one I need depends a lot on what my days have been like (if I’ve been frantically busy, if I’ve not been outside in 9 days, etc.) but are also influenced by my hormones shifts.

  • http://www.simplehomeorganization.com Melinda

    Interesting question. I am an extrovert for the most part with introvert moments. I can start a conversation with people standing in the grocery store line. :) I enjoy going out and spending time with friends, but not on a daily basis…more like a couple times a month. I think it depends on my energy level…and possibly the amount of coffee consumed.
    .-= Melinda´s last blog ..Harry Potter party – the magic of Hogwarts =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Hehe, you and me both on the coffee!

  • http://www.simplehomeorganization.com Melinda

    Interesting question. I am an extrovert for the most part with introvert moments. I can start a conversation with people standing in the grocery store line. :) I enjoy going out and spending time with friends, but not on a daily basis…more like a couple times a month. I think it depends on my energy level…and possibly the amount of coffee consumed.
    .-= Melinda´s last blog ..Harry Potter party – the magic of Hogwarts =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Hehe, you and me both on the coffee!

    • http://newlywedandunemployed.blogspot.com Newlywed & Unemployed

      Introvert all the way. A homebody. I can count my dearest friends on one hand. A watcher. Completely energized by one on one interaction.
      .-= Newlywed & Unemployed´s last blog ..Grandpas Death Was a Bigger Deal Than I Thought =-.

  • http://www.simplehomeorganization.com Melinda

    Interesting question. I am an extrovert for the most part with introvert moments. I can start a conversation with people standing in the grocery store line. :) I enjoy going out and spending time with friends, but not on a daily basis…more like a couple times a month. I think it depends on my energy level…and possibly the amount of coffee consumed.
    .-= Melinda´s last blog ..Harry Potter party – the magic of Hogwarts =-.

    • Mandi Ehman

      Hehe, you and me both on the coffee!

  • http://www.notjustcute.com Amanda

    Mandi-
    This reminds me of our conversation the other day! I love people and gatherings, but I think at my core I am an introvert. Solitude is what I need when I want to recharge and refocus…..and I find that I need that a lot more often than I really get it! I like your explanation of the dichotomy!

  • http://www.notjustcute.com Amanda

    Mandi-
    This reminds me of our conversation the other day! I love people and gatherings, but I think at my core I am an introvert. Solitude is what I need when I want to recharge and refocus…..and I find that I need that a lot more often than I really get it! I like your explanation of the dichotomy!

  • http://theadventureofmotherhood.blogspot.com Janna @ The Adventure of Mothe

    I decided to guess which one you were before looking and I was right! I mean, I don’t think many extroverts would want to live as far out of the city as you do.

    As for me introvert. I’m all about quite moments, and finding cozy corners, to meditate and refresh. I really liked your clarification at the beginning too.
    .-= Janna @ The Adventure of Motherhood´s last blog ..She Enjoys Being a Girl =-.

  • http://theadventureofmotherhood.blogspot.com Janna @ The Adventure of Motherhood

    I decided to guess which one you were before looking and I was right! I mean, I don’t think many extroverts would want to live as far out of the city as you do.

    As for me introvert. I’m all about quite moments, and finding cozy corners, to meditate and refresh. I really liked your clarification at the beginning too.
    .-= Janna @ The Adventure of Motherhood´s last blog ..She Enjoys Being a Girl =-.

  • http://newlywedandunemployed.blogspot.com Newlywed & Unemployed

    Introvert all the way. A homebody. I can count my dearest friends on one hand. A watcher. Completely energized by one on one interaction.
    .-= Newlywed & Unemployed´s last blog ..Grandpas Death Was a Bigger Deal Than I Thought =-.

  • http://newlywedandunemployed.blogspot.com Newlywed & Unemployed

    Introvert all the way. A homebody. I can count my dearest friends on one hand. A watcher. Completely energized by one on one interaction.
    .-= Newlywed & Unemployed´s last blog ..Grandpas Death Was a Bigger Deal Than I Thought =-.

  • http://www.mangiodasola.com Memoria

    I’m indubitably an introvert who also suffers from social phobia.

    By the way, I love the photo you used for this post.

  • http://www.mangiodasola.com Memoria

    I’m indubitably an introvert who also suffers from social phobia.

    By the way, I love the photo you used for this post.

  • http://tenthousandhugs.blogspot.com Mary Elizabeth

    Introvert, introvert, introvert!!! That’s me!! I am a classic introvert all the way around! Social situations leave me exhausted, and time alone to me is golden. Excellent post!
    .-= Mary Elizabeth´s last blog ..My Open Journal – HOPE - =-.

  • http://tenthousandhugs.blogspot.com Mary Elizabeth

    Introvert, introvert, introvert!!! That’s me!! I am a classic introvert all the way around! Social situations leave me exhausted, and time alone to me is golden. Excellent post!
    .-= Mary Elizabeth´s last blog ..My Open Journal – HOPE - =-.

  • http://tenthousandhugs.blogspot.com Mary Elizabeth

    Introvert, introvert, introvert!!! That’s me!! I am a classic introvert all the way around! Social situations leave me exhausted, and time alone to me is golden. Excellent post!
    .-= Mary Elizabeth´s last blog ..My Open Journal – HOPE - =-.

  • Erin

    Introvert! My DH is a total extrovert – we learned a lot about each other while studying the difference between introverts and extroverts! My little sister (who works long hours in the service industry) says “I hate people” – not that she DOES (lol) just that she is exhausted by dealing with them all the time. I understand exactly what she means :)

  • Erin

    Introvert! My DH is a total extrovert – we learned a lot about each other while studying the difference between introverts and extroverts! My little sister (who works long hours in the service industry) says “I hate people” – not that she DOES (lol) just that she is exhausted by dealing with them all the time. I understand exactly what she means :)

  • Erin

    Introvert! My DH is a total extrovert – we learned a lot about each other while studying the difference between introverts and extroverts! My little sister (who works long hours in the service industry) says “I hate people” – not that she DOES (lol) just that she is exhausted by dealing with them all the time. I understand exactly what she means :)

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  • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

    I’m definitely an introvert who NEEDS my alone time. Quiet time to read or write (blog) recharges my batteries and allows me to stay sane.

    Ironically, I’d guess that many people who call me an extrovert. I work as the Activity Coordinator in a nursing home, and I’m fine with leading group activities, socializing with residents and families, etc. I’m not shy or reserved… and I enjoy my job… but by the end of the day, I’m exhausted!

    • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

      * many people who *know me would* call me….

      (I should proofread before sending, LOL!)
      .-= Amy @ Tiny Blessings´s last blog ..Menu Plan Tuesday =-.

  • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

    I’m definitely an introvert who NEEDS my alone time. Quiet time to read or write (blog) recharges my batteries and allows me to stay sane.

    Ironically, I’d guess that many people who call me an extrovert. I work as the Activity Coordinator in a nursing home, and I’m fine with leading group activities, socializing with residents and families, etc. I’m not shy or reserved… and I enjoy my job… but by the end of the day, I’m exhausted!

    • http://amy-tinyblessings.blogspot.com Amy @ Tiny Blessings

      * many people who *know me would* call me….

      (I should proofread before sending, LOL!)
      .-= Amy @ Tiny Blessings´s last blog ..Menu Plan Tuesday =-.

  • http://www.theparentvortex.com Michelle @ The Parent Vortex

    Another introvert here! I do enjoy getting out & visiting people, etc, but when I need to recharge it is most definitely by myself.

  • http://www.theparentvortex.com Michelle @ The Parent Vortex

    Another introvert here! I do enjoy getting out & visiting people, etc, but when I need to recharge it is most definitely by myself.

  • http://www.theparentvortex.com Michelle @ The Parent Vortex

    Another introvert here! I do enjoy getting out & visiting people, etc, but when I need to recharge it is most definitely by myself.

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