Introverts vs Extroverts
Introverts are constantly told to try and be more extroverted, more social, more outgoing however, people don't seem to appreciate how good introversion is. If you are unfamiliar with these terms they relate to the way individuals gain and lose energy. Extroverts gain energy and enjoyment from external factors such as socialising (weird I know), whereas, introverts lose energy from these factors and instead gain energy from internal factors like self-reflection.
Now realistically, nobody is fully extroverted or fully introverted and it is more of a scale that we all fluctuate between and yet, it is always the more introverted leaning people who are told to change ignoring all the advantages of becoming more introverted.
Advantages of being an introvert
Introverts tend to be more empathetic and understanding towards others, allowing them to offer others the comfort and kindness they desire. This advantage is a trait everyone should desire and work towards achieving. Additionally, introverts are more self-aware allowing them to find their faults and improve upon them. They are constantly looking to improve and this allows them to stay humble whilst also continuously improving as people.
Whilst quietness is often considered a problem within introverts it allows them to be better listeners, fully empathising and actively helping those requiring it, along with providing an understanding shoulder that most people need. This leads to far better friendships, with tighter bonds and long-lasting trust built between people.
The advantages of becoming more introverted are clear and it should be continuously encouraged rather than dismissed, it is an aim we should all strive for but the next question is how can we learn from introverts? Well here are 5 things extroverts can learn from introverts.
Become a better listener
The first step to becoming more introverted is to listen. Not just to stop talking. (although that would be nice) but to actually listen. Speaking less is great, it allows you time to hear other opinions, to learn, understand and to develop into something better. This also allows you to process what other people are saying rather than just waiting for your turn to talk. You can create an aura of mystery around you but also become more empathetic and caring - great characteristics for any person especially whilst looking for love.
Focus on quality over quantity
When it comes to friendships, extroverts tend to prefer larger groups and thus gain more friends however, a big fault with this is those friendships aren't always as strong due to time and effort being split between more bonds. Introverts tend to gain closer friendships due to fewer connections, this is a quality that many look over but can drastically help improve your life!
To gain stronger friendships, focus on 1-1 conversations more or hang out with the same few people more often. This accompanied by the first step of being a better listener can lead to real connections and deep meaningful conversations rather than more generic small talk.
Slow down
Due to the quieter lifestyle of introverts, a lesson to be learned is their ability to appreciate things more. Not constantly jumping between focuses means you can cherish your surroundings, paying more attention to nature, life and solutions. Similarly, a trait introverts tend to be better with is planning, this is because they don't rush things and instead think things through, whether that is for conversations - helping them say the right thing, or for work. Slowing down is a great advantage introverts have over extroverts, and patience is a trait you should want.
Reflect
Looking inside yourself means you evaluate your actions and learn from them, allowing yourself to reflect on decisions, thoughts and experiences can help you grow as a person. A great way to do that is Journaling, helping you outline exactly what happened during a day to force yourself to look back and acknowledge your actions.
Reflection works well to help you become comfortable with yourself and allows you to enjoy alone time without feeling alone. However, a difficulty faced by most trying to become more introverted is finding this time without distractions, so a big tip is to multitask - I know this might sound counterproductive! Listening to music or going for a solo walk can grant you that peace and reflective time without the fear of getting bored all whilst providing a stimulus for when your mind does wander.
Creativity
Due to their nature, introverts gain energy from quiet time, which often encourages creative breakthroughs and new ideas. You see this with writers who banish themselves to a cabin in the woods and is linked to why you get your best ideas whilst on the loo. This tranquillity can inspire and spark innovation and can often create solutions quicker than frantically attacking the problem.
Should I be more introverted?
Overall, there are many advantages to becoming more introverted but there is nothing wrong with being extroverted. There is a lot to learn from our introverted peers that can improve relationships, and everyday life additionally it grants extroverts the ability to get along better with introverts.