Introverts and extroverts approach situations differently. Normally, I’m quite content with the fact that I am an introvert and an INFJ. I am proud of who I am, my husband loves me the way I am, and I’m happy with my life.
That being said, when I say I’m an introvert, I mean that in a rather extreme way. No, I’m not shy. No, I don’t really have social anxiety. I just find social stimulation mentally and physically exhausting. As soon as it’s over, the first thought to enter my mind is, “I need a hot bath and a nap.”
Here are a few times where I think life would probably be easier if I was an extrovert.
1. Working at a University
I worked at a university just under 6 months before I decided to leave. The pay and benefits were good, but the social environment… not so much. It was probably the most political work environment I have ever encountered. While there were many reasons that I was unhappy with this job, one of them would have been easier as an extrovert.
I was told on more than one occasion that Mary heard from Jane that I didn’t seem happy or excited about an event. These discussions left me feeling like this was something I needed to fix. I’m not 100% sure who Jane was, but I have a guess. If I’m right, Jane is someone I’ve never spoken to.
Regardless of identity, Person B’s assumptions weren’t true. I was actually interested in watching what was happening, although I did feel awkward. I was still new and I felt like I was being judged because I’m not bubbly or outgoing.
2. Meeting Extroverts
Don’t get me wrong; some extroverts are perfectly amazing people and I love them. There have been a few, however, who seem to think I don’t like them because I don’t talk to them enough or I never initiate conversations. The quite observer is just my natural state. I have tried to explain that, but I don’t think every extrovert believed me.
3. Attending Social Events
Pretty much any social event, especially those where I don’t know many people, would be less stressful if I was the type of person to walk up to a stranger and strike up a conversation. I’m not one for small talk and interrupting someone’s conversation just so I can join in is totally rude.
4. Group Projects
Group projects for school were a nightmare. I often felt like I could have done a better project by myself. Relying on someone else for your grade is stressful. It’s also frustrating because your partners for the project either wanted to control the project or do as little as possible. Conflict was even harder for me in high school and college. Arguing with the group about who does what just wasn’t my thing.
While all of these situations would probably be easier if I was an extrovert, I do not wish to change myself in any way. I’m still perfectly happy with a good book, writing poetry, playing with my dogs, or spending some quiet time with my loved ones. For once in my life, I have the confidence to say I like who I am.