In today’s society, we are always trying to escape labels, but we only succeed in making more. Long gone are the days of just being the brain, the jock, the basket case, the princess, or the criminal, thank you "Breakfast Club."
Two main labels people like to throw around are introvert and extrovert. If you’re socially awkward, you’re an introvert. If you can’t live without social interactions, you’re an extrovert.
What happens, though, if you are neither introvert nor extrovert, but both? Where does that leave you?
Welcome to the new label: Extroverted introvert.
I have recently come to the realization that one of the greatest/hardest things you can be in this life is, in fact, an extroverted introvert. I mean, your whole existence is a dichotomy. Some days you want to meet as many new people as possible, and on others, your greatest accomplishment is finishing that new book you started yesterday. Just me? Okay, cool.
Personally, I believe the pros outweigh the cons, and here are ten pros to combat anyone’s cons:
1. You can easily rock a night on the town or a night on the couch.
I mean, you’re basically the easiest person to please. Dating a homebody? No problem, Netflix it is! Dating the life of the party? You have the perfect LBD for that.
2.You can stay up-to-date in pop culture and literature.
You’ve definitely been keeping up with the Kardashians, and also that new John Green book.
3. Your friends know they can count on you for a good time, or for a good ear.
A good friend knows when you’ve wallowed too much or not enough. They’ll either force-shower you themselves, or buy you another tub of ice cream.
4. You’ve mastered the art of dressing simply chic.
Somehow, you’re never overdressed or underdressed. You know how to mix the right pieces and patterns for an on-point outfit every time.
5. You’re never bored.
Whether it’s spearheading a spontaneous getaway with all your closest friends, or planning a date with your favorite restaurant, you always have something to keep you occupied.
6. You know people everywhere.
The extroverted side of you has plenty of “friends,” but your introverted self knows who really has your back.
7. You’re a mystery.
People don’t always know what to make of you. Some would say you’re quiet, but your friends know what you did last weekend…
8. You know when to speak up and when to hold your tongue.
This is probably one of the most important skills in the workplace. Yes, sometimes your boss need to know that you are a human being and deserve to be treated as such. However, you should probably keep the profanity to yourself. Just saying.
9. You can make the best of any situation.
There are times when you just have to go full extrovert or complete introvert to make it through the day. And that’s okay, because in the famous words of Kimmy Schmidt, “You can do anything for just ten seconds.” Except go without wi-fi. That’s not okay.
10. You can be alone.
After all the parties, traveling, and meeting new people, you need to recharge. Whether it’s a night with Netflix, a new book, or even a date to the movies by yourself, you’re fine with just being alone.
Even on the days where I feel like I’m going crazy, I’m still so grateful to be who I am. ‘Cause God don’t make no mistakes, and He wouldn’t start with me. So embrace your extroverted self, or your introverted self, or your extroverted introverted self, because whoever you are is pretty freaking awesome. Just do you, boo boo! #Blessed anyone?
