Introvert vs. extrovert: How to tell which one you actually are
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Do you know what sets introverts and extroverts apart? From energy levels to social habits, learn the key differences and find out where you fall on the spectrum.
Conventional wisdom would have you believe that if your idea of a good time is putting your phone on Do Not Disturb and curling up with a book, you’re probably an introvert. Similarly, if the minute you get out of work, you call your friends to grab dinner and hit up karaoke, you might assume you’re an extrovert.
But people are much more complicated than that. There’s a broad spectrum of introverts and extroverts, and not everyone falls neatly into one category. It’s also common to be an ambivert — a combination of the two personality types.
If you want to figure out which way you lean, or how someone leans in your life, here’s what you need to know. Let’s uncover the different traits of being an introvert and extrovert — and how you can honor your energy no matter where you fall on the spectrum.
What is an introvert?
Being an introvert is all about energy — where you get it and where it drains. Typically, introverts recharge in calm and quiet spaces. They like solo walks, reading, and cozy nights in. They may enjoy socializing, but not all the time.
When it comes to connection, they go for quality over quantity. They tend to be thoughtful and reflective, and don’t enjoy small talk. Additionally, introverts can be great listeners, as they often take the time to process their thoughts before speaking.
4 types of introverts
Many people think that introversion is about being shy, but it’s actually about how you experience the world and where you get your energy.
Here are the four most common types of introverts:
Social introverts: This type prefers small, intimate gatherings over large, noisy crowds. They enjoy social time but need it in smaller doses.
Introverted thinkers: These individuals tend to be deep thinkers who often become lost in their own thoughts. They love big ideas, creative projects, and daydreaming.
Anxious introverts: This kind of introvert is uneasy in social situations. They get nervous about in-the-moment awkwardness and replay every word after they leave an interaction.
Introverted individuals who are restrained: These introverts take their time meeting new people, initiating conversations, and adjusting to new environments. They tend to observe, think, and process before jumping in.
10 signs you're an introvert
Not sure if you’re an introvert? Here are 10 classic signs:
Socializing can drain your battery, even when you enjoy it.
You prefer one-on-one conversations to small talk.
Too much external stimulation can be overwhelming.
You think before you speak — and sometimes keep it to yourself.
Crowds tend to feel exhausting.
You’re very self-aware and introspective.
You value meaningful relationships over large social circles.
Alone time is essential for you.
You’d rather text than call.
What is an extrovert?
In general, extroverts feel most alive when soaking up social energy. They like shared laughs, spontaneous plans, and late-night conversations. They recharge by engaging with people and diving into new experiences. Also, they’re external processors, so they figure things out by talking.
And while extroverts need their downtime, it often involves other people. They might relax over a chill dinner or a chat over coffee. They also love deep connections, which they achieve through shared experiences and group hangouts.
4 types of extroverts
Being an extrovert typically means you feel energized by being around people, but there are many different variations of this personality type.
Here’s a breakdown of the four most common types of extroverts:
Affiliative extroverts: This type knows everyone, remembers names, and values deep, loyal relationships. They’re the ones organizing group dinners and checking in just because.
Agentic extroverts: These are natural leaders and action-takers. They love setting goals, rallying teams, and pitching big ideas.
Expressive extroverts: This kind of extrovert is open, enthusiastic, and all about emotional connection. They’ll cheer you on and be the first to comfort you when you need a friend.
Energetic extroverts: These extroverts are thrill-seekers and are constantly chasing the next adventure. When life feels routine, they’re booking trips or suggesting midnight karaoke.
10 signs you're an extrovert
If you want to determine if you’re an extrovert, here are 10 classic signs:
You feel energized by social interactions.
You process your thoughts by talking them out.
You feel off if you’ve been alone too long.
You enjoy group activities.
You’re comfortable being the center of attention.
You get bored without external stimulation.
You usually plan or initiate social events.
You thrive in collaborative environments.
You find silence uncomfortable.
What is an ambivert?
An ambivert is someone who falls right in the middle of being an introvert and an extrovert. They have traits of both, and they can shift between the two depending on the situation or their mood. Sometimes, they’ll feel energized by social gatherings, but other times, they’ll crave solitude to recharge.
Ambiverts are often adaptable. They’re comfortable in a variety of settings and can connect with both introverts and extroverts. Still, this flexibility can also be confusing, especially when their social needs can change frequently.
How to tell if you’re an introvert or extrovert (or an ambivert)
It’s not always easy to tell what personality type you are, as there’s such a wide spectrum. Here are five ways to figure out where you land.
1. Think about how you recharge
When life feels overwhelming, ask yourself how you rest and feel more like yourself.
If you feel most refreshed after quiet time—like reading, walking alone, or just zoning out with a cup of tea—you’re probably an introvert.
If you feel energized after a big night out or a casual chat with friends, you’re probably an extrovert.
If you enjoy both, but it just depends on the day, the situation, or your mood, you might be an ambivert.
Here are 12 ways to find relief if you’re feeling overwhelmed right now.
2. Notice your tolerance for socializing
Take stock of how fast your social battery drains and how long it takes to recharge.
Introverts typically have a limited social battery. If you enjoy socializing but it feels draining after a short amount of time, you might be an introvert.
Extroverts tend to have a longer-lasting battery and feel recharged by social interaction. If being around people gives you a boost, you probably lean extrovert.
Ambiverts sometimes love being social, but other times crave solitude. If it depends on the people and the setting, you’re most likely an ambivert.
💙 Listen to Recharge After A Busy Day with Mel Mah to fill your cup back up.
3. Consider how you process emotions and thoughts
When you struggle with a decision or a big life event, ask yourself how you make sense of things.
Introverts are internal processors. They think through ideas before sharing them, and often consider every angle before they speak.
Extroverts process out loud. They figure things out by talking, brainstorming, and bouncing ideas around with others.
Ambiverts sometimes talk it out, and sometimes mull it over privately. It just depends on the day, and the complexity of the thought.
💙 Make sense of your feelings by listening to Tamara Levitt’s Emotions Series.
4. Observe how you handle downtime
When you suddenly have a free afternoon, ask yourself what you’d prefer to do.
Introverts will probably be thrilled. They’ll grab a book, head out for a solo walk, or binge their favorite show without needing to see anyone all day.
Extroverts might feel a little anxious. Alone time is fine in small doses, but too much of it can feel draining. They’ll probably text a friend or head to a busy restaurant just to be around people.
Ambiverts can go either way. Some days, they’ll lean into solitude, but others, they’ll seek out connection.
5. Think about how you handle new experiences
If you’re around new people and new places, ask yourself how you feel about them.
Introverts might hesitate at first. They’re more likely to ease into new situations and prefer spaces where they can observe before jumping in.
Extroverts will probably get excited. They love the thrill of new experiences, meeting strangers, and embracing spontaneity.
Ambiverts might hesitate but also be a little excited. On some days, they’re ready to dive headfirst into fun adventures, while on others, they’d rather stay in their comfort zone.
Read more: 9 ways to navigate change mindfully
Introvert vs extrovert FAQs
Which is better, to be an introvert or an extrovert?
There isn’t a better personality type. Both introverts and extroverts have their own strengths. Introverts tend to be thoughtful, introspective, and excellent listeners.
On the flip side, extroverts are typically outgoing, energetic, and skilled at building connections. Each personality type has valuable perspectives and skills.
Is introversion the same as being shy?
Being introverted isn’t the same as being shy; it’s about how you recharge and process the world around you. If you’re an introvert, you usually feel most energized by solitude and quiet. But shyness is about fear or anxiety around social judgment.
A shy person might want to engage socially but feel nervous about doing so. Meanwhile, an introvert might feel totally confident and comfortable in social settings but simply prefers spending time alone.
You can be an outgoing introvert or a shy extrovert. It all comes down to energy and not confidence.
Can introverts become extroverts (or vice versa)?
Typically, your core personality traits—like being more introverted or extroverted—are relatively stable. Still, you can develop new skills and learn to adapt to different situations over time.
For example, an introvert can learn to enjoy social events more by setting boundaries. On the other end, an extrovert can practice slowing down and embracing quiet moments.
How do introverts and extroverts handle stress differently?
Introverts and extroverts often approach stress in different ways. Introverts usually retreat inward when they’re overwhelmed. They typically seek solitude to process their thoughts and emotions.
Whereas extroverts are more likely to seek out social interaction to alleviate their stress. They might talk things through with friends or look for ways to distract themselves with new experiences.
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