Introvert vs. Extrovert, It’s All Vanity
But no matter whether we identify as introverts or extroverts, there are problems that can arise which can inhibit us when we lose the balance between independence and dependence within our relationships.
Over time, I’ve known of many people who are extroverts, who face difficulty with maintaining their own identities, a sense of autonomy, or have missed out on opportunities simply because these things require the efforts of one who can operate individually. For instance, if you’ve ever missed out on an opportunity simply because you had no one to accompany you, then this might be an indication of a tendency to become overly dependent on others.
To some, the thought of doing anything or going anywhere alone is just unwise or uninteresting. Although there is wisdom to the saying, “There is safety in numbers”, that still should not stop any of us from taking advantage of what life has to offer in any area simply because we are afraid to be alone in our own presence.
Likewise, I’ve known others like myself, who are introverts, who face difficulty with mixing into the company of others. Therein lies an overwhelming desire to always go it alone and to hold the mentality that, “If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself”. For instance, if you’ve ever avoided others and lost chances to connect resulting in missed opportunities because you felt as though you just didn’t want to be bothered or you just didn’t have it in you to be sociable, then this might be an indication of a tendency to separate your yourself in a way that might not always be so healthy or beneficial.
The point is that whether you consider yourself a loner or a people person, we should all learn to become comfortable in any situation. Personally, as a loner, there have been many times when I have absolutely HATED working in groups or even traveling with others because I smugly felt as though I could do everything better on my own.
I was wrong.
The truth is that we must learn how to accept help and to give help and work together. I have had to learn that lesson the hard way.
Likewise…
There will be a time when those who prefer to ALWAYS be grouped and to have people around will have to learn that they must become comfortable and secure within themselves. They must learn to trust in their own abilities in order to effectively work and interact with others.
I think we have all seen our share of opinion pieces boasting about why one personality type is better than the other, but this isn’t a fight between introvert and extrovert. This is a broad reflection on how important it is to have a balance in our lives. Our personality types make us special, but they should never be stumbling blocks and inhibitors that hold us back. If that is happening, you may need to reevaluate your perceptions of how you view yourself and the world around you.
Always choose to be uniquely you and to be comfortable in your own skin, but remember that no one gets through this life alone.
A. L. Hearn