So you say that you relate to both introvert and extrovert? Hmmm ... Well, that might be because you are actually an ambivert! The definition of an ambivert is someone that relates to the personality traits of both an extrovert and an introvert.
How social you are is all dependent on the dopamine levels in your brain. Extroverts tend to have low levels of stimulation so they seek out adventure and human interaction because too much alone time leaves extroverts feeling bored. Introverts on the other hand, already have high levels of stimulation and that's why they would prefer small talk and staying in for a night to themselves because over stimulation causes them to feel overwhelmed.
The majority of us have personality traits that, given the right environment, allow us to feel comfortable. In other words, the majority of our behavior is the result of our interaction in certain situations. This means that someone who might be an extrovert, when having to present an assignment, might become more introverted because they feel uncomfortable in the situation.
However, there are those rare, true personality types who possess all dominant extrovert functions and no introverted functions, regardless of the situation that they are in and vice versa.
The Advantages of Being an Ambivert
Everyone has their preferences of what they like to do and what they prefer, but we all have the capacity to be both introverted and extroverted. As we grow older, we tend to start to move toward the center of the scale.
Ambiverts are people who really don't prefer one way of functioning over another. They are the neutral middle-ground people who feel equally comfortable in situations where the introvert feels most at home and where the extrovert is having a great time. Ambiversion helps you enjoy a life of varied experiences. It allows you to slowly absorb all the simple things in life through being a little bit introverted. And it allows you to express yourself and seek adventure through being a little bit extroverted.
I personally believe that I am an ambivert. Especially during my summer job, I have a lot of interaction with people for about 10 hours every day. On days that I don't work, or even the hours that I have before I go into work, I find to be very precious because I'm able to be alone and enjoy peace. I often find it tiring being around a lot of people for such long periods of time. I feel a lot more energized when I'm able to sit in my room with the door closed and just listen to music or watch Netflix in bed. No responsibilities or people to talk to, just me and my thoughts. But after sitting alone for so long, I feel like I need to go out and talk to other people, maybe explore the world a little bit. It's a balancing act.
As an ambivert you can enjoy small talk with a close friend and then later on in the night, enjoy yourself at a big party with lots of music and people. Ambivert is the perfect balance of introverted and extroverted traits. You are able to appreciate time alone while enjoying the company of others and seeking out adventure and risk.
I'm an ambivert, are you?
Take this quiz and find out!
http://www.danpink.com/assessment/
Website: http://lonerwolf.com/ambivert/
