性格内向有哪些好处？

有些人性格内向，而有些人则性格外向。相比之下，开朗大方的人似乎更容易被人接受，又常是社交活动中备受瞩目的对象。但外向真的比内向好吗？还是说各有利弊？哪类人更善于倾听？

 

From a young age, many of us learn the benefits of being an extrovert¹ – those gregarious² individuals who always seem to be the life and soul of the party, often outspoken³ and able to express their opinions easily. However, not all of us are wired that way – so is being an extrovert really better?

 

While thinking of extroverts⁴, we imagine a character who is assertive⁵, approachable, cheerful and charming. We are taught to admire these traits early on. Kids are often encouraged to interact, play and communicate with other children. It seems at times as though children are made to embrace a more outgoing lifestyle, with some people becoming pseudo-extroverts – introverts⁷ who mimic⁸ extrovert behaviour. While externally they may seem to enjoy the company of others, or being in the limelight, they can still become over-extended in intense social situations. 

 

So, while the positive aspects of being an extrovert are plain to see, what are the benefits of introversion⁹? While extroverts thrive on social interaction, introverts are more comfortable with levels of isolation¹⁰. According to Dr Berit Brogaard, a professor of philosophy, extreme solitude¹¹, such as times like the recent lockdown, does not affect introverts as much as extroverts. Lack of social contact, something extroverts thrive on, can lead to depression, loneliness, and even premature¹² death.

 

But it's not just in an extreme situation that the pros¹³ of being an introvert⁶ shine through. These people seem to have more time for contemplation and introspection and thus can become more balanced. They also tend to be good listeners and think before they speak, meaning they could become great friends. Finally, introverts are often fantastic observers, as sitting out of the focus can give you more time to watch the behaviour of others.

 

So, whatever your personality, either introvert or extrovert, there are clear advantages to being either, and if you meet an introvert, you might just end up with an amazing friend.

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