Introvert vs. Extrovert: Understanding Personality Types

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? That seems like a straightforward question. But the answer isn’t always obvious, especially if you have preconceived notions of what both personality types look and feel like.

Health psychologist Grace Tworek, PsyD, talks through the differences and offers advice.

Introvert vs. extrovert: What’s the difference?

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The main difference between introverts and extroverts comes down to how you recharge and process the world around you.

• Introverts gain energy from internal sources. They thrive on spending time alone.
• Extroverts are energized by external sources, like being around other people and engaging in conversations.

“At its core, being an introvert or an extrovert is about how you get your energy,” Dr. Tworek explains. “It’s a matter of what stimulates you and what drains you.”

But it’s not always clear-cut. Personality types exist on a continuum. Some people may lean more drastically toward either introversion or extroversion. Others may find themselves closer to the center — a happy medium called ambiversion.

What is introversion?

Introverts typically prefer reflection and independence. They thrive in quieter environments and find solitude restorative. Introverts tend to be deep thinkers and good listeners.

“Time alone gives introverts an opportunity to get their thoughts together and charge their batteries,” Dr. Tworek notes.

And while introversion is sometimes confused with being shy, there’s a difference. Shyness is a fear of being judged negatively by others. Introversion isn’t a matter of confidence or worrying about others’ opinions. It’s simply about preferring to have time for yourself to look inward and process your thoughts.

In other words, not all introverts are shy, and not all people who are shy are introverts.

Characteristics and signs of an introvert

Not every introvert checks all the boxes. But if several of these traits sound familiar, you may lean more toward the introverted side of the spectrum:

• You enjoy spending time alone or in small groups of people you know well.
• You’re a thoughtful listener.
• You prefer deep, one-on-one conversations over large group dynamics.
• You avoid conflict.
• You think before speaking.

What is extroversion?

Extroverts are energized by social settings and being with other people. They often thrive in group environments and tend to think out loud.

“Extroverts may want to go out with friends after work, or want to meet up for drinks,” Dr. Tworek says. “They’re at their best when they’re around others.”

Extroverts are often seen as outgoing and confident, and many are natural leaders.

Characteristics and signs of an extrovert

Of course, not all extroverts are the same. But if these traits resonate with you, you likely lean toward extroversion:

• You feel energized by social interaction.
• You enjoy group projects and collaboration.
• You’re comfortable speaking up.
• You make decisions quickly.
• You like to talk through problems.
• You like to try new things.

Is it ‘better’ to be an introvert or an extrovert?

There’s no “better” personality type. Both introverts and extroverts bring important strengths to the table. And they can have their challenges, too. Which is more helpful for you depends on the situation.

For example, if you’re an extrovert, teaching a classroom full of rowdy kindergarteners might feel fun and exciting. For an introvert, that could be overstimulating and tiring.

If you’re an extrovert, crunching numbers at a desk all day may feel isolating and draining. For an introvert, that kind of intellectual work can be invigorating.

“There are positive qualities that come with both introverts and extroverts, as well as drawbacks,” says Dr. Tworek. “We can actively work on developing traits from personality types to better suit our needs in specific circumstances.”

If your tendencies aren’t serving you well at times, take a chance to practice developing skills from the other side of the personality continuum. For example:

• If you feel like you speak up too quickly, practice pausing before you respond.
• If you find that staying quiet in group settings is problematic for you, jot your thoughts down first — then speak up.
• If you're always on the go and could benefit from some downtime, experiment with quiet time, like reading or meditating.

“The first step is just noticing the traits you want to build,” Dr. Tworek advises. “With a little effort and practice, you can tap into the best of both worlds.”