It's not uncommon to feel confused about your personality type, especially if you perceive yourself as having traits from both introversion and extroversion. The concepts of introversion and extroversion are not black-and-white, but rather exist on a spectrum, and many people fall somewhere in between, often referred to as ambiverts.
Ambiverts are individuals who display characteristics of both introversion and extroversion, and their behavior and preferences may vary depending on the situation, context, or their energy levels at a given time. Here are a few points to consider:
Introversion-Extraversion Spectrum: Introversion and extroversion are not all-or-nothing traits. Many people possess a blend of both qualities and may lean more towards one end of the spectrum or exhibit a balance between the two.
Social Behavior vs. Energy Recharge: Introversion and extroversion primarily refer to how you respond to stimulation and where you draw your energy from. Introverts tend to recharge by spending time alone or in low-stimulation environments, while extroverts often recharge through social interactions and external stimuli.
Adaptation: People are adaptable, and social behavior can be influenced by factors like personal growth, confidence, learned behaviors, and the context of social situations.
Cognitive Functions: The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) theory, which includes concepts like introversion and extraversion, also takes into account cognitive functions. Understanding the cognitive functions associated with different personality types might provide additional clarity.
Self-Reflection: Take time to self-reflect and observe your preferences and energy levels in various situations. Consider how you feel after social interactions, how much alone time you need to recharge, and what activities make you feel most comfortable and fulfilled.
Don't Force a Label: Remember that you don't have to fit neatly into a specific personality type. It's okay to be a unique combination of traits and preferences. Embrace the complexity of your personality without feeling the need to force a particular label.
If you find yourself consistently leaning towards introverted behaviors and feeling more comfortable in quieter or solitary settings, you might identify more as an introvert. However, if you also enjoy socializing and can be outgoing in certain situations, you might have some extroverted tendencies or fall closer to the middle of the spectrum.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to understand and accept yourself for who you are, recognizing that personality is multifaceted and can manifest in various ways. Embrace your unique blend of qualities, and don't be too concerned about fitting perfectly into one category or another.