Are you an extrovert or an introvert? If the former, you probably enjoy spending time with large groups of people, are considered to be the life of a party and likely don’t derive much pleasure from spending hours in solitude. If you identify as the latter, you probably prefer being alone in the comfort of your own home, have only a handful of friends you feel comfortable spending time with, and are more than capable of keeping yourself occupied.
Because the world is full of extrovert-type minds, the introvert gets somewhat of a bad rap. Thought to be “antisocial” or just plain weird, an introvert can feel poor about themselves if they buy into the mainstream opinion. However, there are strengths to being an introvert more people need to know about, and four of the most common (which result from introvert-type behavior) follow:
1) An ideal weekend is self-imposed “house arrest”
To the rest of the world, daydreaming about spending all day in your house, cleaning, catching up on a favorite show, or even partaking in a hobby you’ve missed might sound dull. While such is undoubtedly a matter of opinion, there is great benefit to wanting to be on self-imposed “house arrest.”
In today’s busy world, humans require periods of rest and relaxation. Because an introvert feels refreshed when they are alone, they are more likely to prioritize habits such as sipping tea while watching the sun rise or doing yoga to de-stress.
Not only does the body benefit from slowing down, the mind can find clarity from doing so. Additionally, an introvert is more likely to find that sought-after “inner peace” because they can enjoy the little things in life. On the other hand, an extrovert may have trouble feeling happy, as they are constantly waiting for the next party to take place.
2) An introvert’s attention to detail makes them indecisive but invaluable
When presented with a plethora of options, an introvert will take as much time is required to assess the situation and make as much of an educated decision as possible. Though this can be time-consuming and annoying to a more extrovert-oriented mind, it makes that introverted team player invaluable as they think of and see things ordinary minds don’t.
3) Introverts can let loose and be silly — but only with the right people
Introverts aren’t likely to walk up to a random stranger at a party and strike up conversation, but they will prove themselves to be loyal, thoughtful friends again and again to a handful of special people in their life. This is because they recognize quality over quantity (a lacking trait) and will go the extra mile to please people they care for.
While others count how many friends they have on Facebook, an introvert will be grateful they found a group of people they can be themselves with and feel happy as a result.
4) Time in isolation has a purpose
Some of the most brilliant minds in history had little appreciation for parties and fancy gatherings. Rather, they were engrossed with their work because they recognized the far-reaching implications of their efforts.
As an introvert, alone time pays off. As was mentioned in point #1, time in solitude ensures one prioritizes their well-being. However, for certain introvert-type minds, it also enables them to do great things on this planet as they are not distracted with the task of pleasing others.