People often get put into one of two categories: either you are an introvert, someone who is more shy, or you are an extrovert, someone who is more outgoing and sociable. Oftentimes when I have been asked whether I'm an introvert or extrovert, I can't seem to decide. It should seem easy, as the two are complete opposites; however, I find that I have characteristics from both ends which make it difficult. The truth is that people are often a concoction of emotions. A human being is much more complex than simply being a completely shy creature or a totally outgoing one. Most people are neither introverts or extroverts, but a mixture of the two, called ambiverts.

I love being surrounded by friends, but I occasionally get social anxiety before I go out or feel the need to recharge by being alone after being around people for too long.

Sometimes, my anxiety overcomes me, and I cancel plans because I don't feel as though I have the energy to be around people. Other times, I go out and am the life of the party.

I don't really like starting conversations as that can give me anxiety and cause me to overthink, but if I am engaged, I might not be able to shut up! Some days, though, I may not feel like talking at all, so I will try my best to avoid interactions.

I also don’t always need to be moving or doing something, but too much down time leaves me feeling bored.

When it comes to trusting other people or getting into relationships, sometimes I’m overly skeptical, while other times, I dive right in.

I have found that some people think I’m quiet while others think I’m highly social, and it all just depends on the situation.

Additionally, I feel like people may sometimes get easily upset or frustrated with me because I may cancel plans or I bounce between my feelings, but the truth is that everyone is complex and I can't help how I feel. Every day is different and just because I was feeling more sociable yesterday, does not mean I am in the mood to be around people the next day. I will go out and meet new people, but I find that I like and actually need my alone time to recharge.

The trick to being an ambivert is knowing when to force yourself to lean toward one side of the spectrum when it isn’t happening naturally. It can be tough, especially when you are forced to be sociable and you don't want to be, but since we are both extroverts and introverts, we can move more easily on the spectrum.