Each person's personality is unique. Nevertheless, certain personality traits can be classified that apply to several people. In psychology, a distinction is made between introverted and extraverted personalities. What this means and how you can use your extraverted type for yourself, you will learn in the following article.
According to the definition, extraversion is characterized by an outward-looking attitude towards life. Extraverted personalities are very sociable and like to be the center of attention. They find interaction with other people inspiring and beneficial. Conversely, they can tolerate silence and Loneliness difficult to bear.
The prime example of an extraverted personality is the frequently cited party animal who has to have something planned every weekend. It is in the nature of things that these people usually have a very large circle of friends. They are fun-loving and love to be active. It is not uncommon for them to belong to several clubs and to cultivate various hobbies.
Whether someone is extraverted or not is largely genetically predisposed. But life experiences can also play a role and shape you in one direction or another. Nevertheless, it is extremely rare for an extraverted personality to change completely into the opposite.
Introversion describes the opposite of extraversion. Introverts are quiet and reserved contemporaries who like to be alone with themselves. They could also be described as self-satisfied. Constant hustle and bustle would not only overtax this personality type, but downright drain it mentally. He needs to retreat into his own world of thought in order to draw strength.
During the corona pandemic, the difference between extraverted and introverted personalities became particularly clear. The latter, for example, were able to cope much better with the contact restrictions and the lockdown. This is clear from a current study by the University of Leipzig out.
Even if introverts use and need being alone as a break from work, this by no means means means that they are generally not interested in social contact. The need is just far less pronounced than in extraverted people. They prefer a fixed circle of familiar people instead of numerous loose contacts.
The differentiation of these personalities goes back to the Swiss psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung. In 1921, he introduced the two technical terms into personality psychology. Extraverted people can be easily recognized by the following characteristics:
Are you not sure if you can call yourself an extrovert? It's not even that rare. Very few people allow themselves to be Personality type completely. It is much more common to have parts of both mentalities, but one side dominates. In this case we talk about ambivert personalities.
Being extraverted brings numerous advantages, especially in the social sphere. For example, it is easy for extraverted people to make friends in a group, even if they don't know anyone yet. They make friends quickly and soon belong everywhere. They are perceived as warm and funny, which further increases their popularity.
So those who are extraverted never stay alone for long. This can contribute to a fulfilling and happy social life. These personality types also have a decisive advantage when it comes to finding a partner. If someone arouses their interest, they are not afraid to simply approach them. They don't think twice, they just act. They literally seize opportunities by the scruff of the neck.
All the qualities described above also have a beneficial effect on their professional career. Their ability to integrate and win others over makes them popular colleagues. Extraverted personalities stand up for their needs. They are not afraid to speak their mind and know no false modesty. The latter can pave the way for them to a leadership position.
Despite all the advantages explained, an extraverted mentality can sometimes cause difficulties. If the Need for social contact and action is not sufficiently satisfied, extraverted people quickly become unhappy. They lack the ability to be alone with themselves. They simply don't know what to do with themselves.
Furthermore, extraverts are often said to be superficial. They have countless contacts, but firm friendships are not always among them. They prefer to keep small talk and provide all-round good Moodinstead of having deep conversations. In this way, they block the way to true closeness and genuine Trust, e.g. within a partnership.
Someone who is extraverted also sometimes has difficulties with listening. Extraverts often lack the patience to persistently follow the explanations of their conversation partners. This is all the more true when it comes to melancholy topics. Extraverted personalities sometimes find it difficult to understand that life is not all partying and fun.
Extraverts are usually sociable people with whom you can quickly warm up. Nevertheless, we would like to give you some essential tips for dealing with extraverts. Especially if you are introverted yourself, the following impulses can help you:
When dealing with an extraverted person, you will hardly be able to avoid small talk. However, the latter is not that difficult if you are willing to engage in it. Sometimes small talk can even be relaxing be. The world is serious enough as it is, so shallow topics can even feel soothing. Go ahead and give it a try.
If you are an extrovert, you quickly become a "you". This can irritate some interlocutors. However, you should not classify this peculiarity of extraverted people as an overstepping of boundaries or even as an insult! By addressing you personally, an extraverted person simply wants to bridge the distance to you, which is to be understood as a compliment.
In addition to being quick to duck, a person who is extraverted tends to hug, write, and call frequently. This is also a sign of Appreciation and interest. However, since extraverted people have difficulty judging when it is too much for someone, you may of course set your limits in a friendly manner.
A person with an extraverted disposition is very generous with praise and also likes to receive recognition himself. There is nothing to be said against adapting to this behavior. Mutual praise has an inspiring effect. Criticizing yourself constantly, on the other hand, weakens your motivation and Productivity.
If you are friends with an extraverted person, you will certainly receive numerous invitations from them. Extraverted people like to be out and about frequently, preferably together with friends. If, on the other hand, you sometimes need your peace and quiet, you may of course communicate this. It is important that the rejection is formulated tactfully.
Instead of blaming or sighing in annoyance, it's nicer to find a compromise that both parties are happy with: "My work week has been very tiring, so I'd rather rest on Saturday than go to the party with you. But how about we go for a walk together on Sunday instead and have a coffee afterwards?"
Extraverts crave variety. So don't insist that your meetings always follow the same pattern. Try something new from time to time. You may even discover a touch of adventure in yourself.
Whether someone is an extravert or introvert depends largely on genetic predisposition. Both character types have their specific strengths and weaknesses on. Although it is hardly possible and also not sensible to want to fundamentally change the innate mentality, you can definitely work on some characteristics.
Extraverts have a clear advantage, especially when it comes to social interaction. It is important that you know how to use this advantage. Your natural talent for approaching people can open many doors for you, both professionally and privately.
However, do not forget that life is not only about pleasure. Sometimes it is necessary to face serious issues. Even being alone at times can be trained gradually.