Extroverts and introverts: we're kind of like cats and dogs. We are very different in many respects, and sometimes our likes and dislikes can be conflicting. With an almost 50/50 extrovert to introvert population in the world, it is inevitable that we have to interact with each other every day. You may be an introvert who has extroverted parents or an extrovert with introverted friends. Either way, we should know how to handle each other's differences.
When communicating with an introvert, know that you should get straight to the point before he or she gets tired of the conversation. Small talk isn't necessarily needed with introverts because we despise small talk. We would rather have deep meaningful conversations with people. If you have something important to tell us, do it in person and be brief. While most of us really do enjoy talking with people, it can be very draining for us.
Just because we like to be alone doesn't mean we hate you or people in general; try not to take it personally. As mentioned, social interaction drains us. While extroverts gain their energy from these interactions, introverts are the ones giving up their energy. To get that energy back, we need alone time. Some people like to read, some listen to music or watch TV, others clean their room or house, while some just curl up in bed and think about their day. Whatever the individual does, this time is important and essential to them; without it, they can run out of energy completely and become cranky and moody (I know from experience).
Being quiet doesn't always mean we are shy. A lot of people assume that all introverts are shy. I actually know quite a few outgoing introverts and one or two shy extroverts. In fact, being shy or outgoing has nothing to do with extroversion or introversion.
We admire your ability to make friends with everyone you meet. Even though we aren't all shy, it is harder for us to make friends (probably because of the small talk thing). We tend to stick to having a handful of really close friends, and that works for us. Sometimes, however, we wish that we could walk in a room for the first time and find something we have in common with every person in that room. It would make job interviews easier, it would make networking easier, and it would really make social gatherings easier.
Sometimes, we may seem like we are extroverts, but don't be fooled. Since most introverts do have some extroverted tendencies, we can enjoy going out to parties or spending the evening with a large group of people just as much as extroverts do. The difference is, the whole time we are being more and more drained, and we will need some serious alone time after the outing. So when you see an introvert out at parties or an event, expect to not see them much the next couple of days. We love being with people, but we love being alone too, and that's perfectly okay.
Introverts, extroverts, and all the people somewhere in between live in this world and communicate and work with each other every day. Not one single type of person is the best type and if everyone were the same, it sure would be a boring world. We need both introverts and extroverts to build up and support each other in our weaknesses and teach each other our strengths. Learn to respect the differing personality types around you, and try to understand them because it will just make life that much easier.
