Are You Introverted or Extroverted? The Answer Might Surprise You.
Khanh is an economics student who participates in various courses and workshops. In these settings, he always presents himself as lively and dynamic, eagerly sharing his opinions and not missing any activities.
Other students admire his confidence and energy, while some dislike him, calling him arrogant. However, everyone agrees that he is an extrovert. He is proactive in communication and often stands out as the most prominent person in a group.
Minh is also an economics student. Outside of class, he joins a few courses and workshops. However, unlike Khanh, he often struggles to initiate conversations, feels shy during interactions, and avoids crowded places. Naturally, those around him perceive him as an introvert.
Yet, behind the facade lies a different story. Only a few close friends understand that when faced with problems, Khanh often cuts off all communication with those around him. He “closes the door” and relies on himself. Typically, he starts with questions in his mind, such as “Why did this happen?”, “How did it happen?”, “What options do I have?”…
Minh also has a close-knit group of friends and a few other acquaintances. However, whenever he faces personal issues, he often drags along one or two friends. There’s no need for long explanations; just wandering around, eating, or going on a trip somewhere helps him find answers to his pressing questions.
So, who is introverted, and who is extroverted? People often set standards for introversion or extroversion based on communication styles, forgetting another crucial factor in determining whether someone is introverted or extroverted: the tendency in problem-solving and self-assessment.
Many mistakenly believe that communication alone determines who is introverted and who is extroverted.
When it comes to career orientation, introverts tend to focus on their internal thoughts, on self-imposed questions, and on their own strengths and weaknesses.
What about extroverts? Extroverts usually explore different professions, meet and exchange ideas with people working in those fields, or try things out for themselves to see if they are a good fit.
Are We Introverted or Extroverted?
The answer might not be what you expect, as we are actually both!
Indeed, most of us are a blend of introversion and extroversion. You might be introverted in communication but can easily “absorb” energy from those around you when faced with a problem. Only a small minority are entirely introverted or extroverted.
Most of us have both introverted and extroverted aspects.
Should We Be Introverted or Extroverted?
There is no right or wrong in being introverted or extroverted. Nevertheless, both have their drawbacks.
For instance, introverts, when too focused on themselves, may lack a comprehensive view of the outside world. They might understand themselves well but may not know which fields they are suited for in a vast job market. Currently, introverts can find what they desire, but they will limit themselves if they wish to discover other opportunities outside their comfort zone.
On the other hand, extroverts have a broad view of the outside world but often neglect to focus on their own thoughts. They tend to try many professions, and if lucky, they may stay in one for a long time. Otherwise, they might shift to another field instead of concentrating on self-analysis.
Whether you are introverted or extroverted, the first step is to accept yourself.
Therefore, whether you identify as an introvert or extrovert, the first thing you should do is accept yourself. After that, consider whether your nature is hindering you. For example, if you want to be a sales employee but struggle with introverted communication, shyness, and passivity.
So, should you change right away? The choice is yours.
