The balance of introvert and extrovert: Ambivert

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 Is there such a thing as being introverted with an extrovert personality? This seems more of a personal question because everyone is different. I have never been seen as an introvert, but that’s because I have learned enough about myself that I have a balance of introvert and extrovert characteristics.

 

--"But Jenna, you are so good around people, have a large social network, thrive in crowds, and seek stimulation in your life, all qualities of being an extrovert.”

--The correct term for myself is: Ambivert

 

I enjoy the presence of others, but I need time to be alone to recharge my social battery. I am outgoing in the right context while being subtle in other situations. I work well with others but also prefer working alone. I can process my thoughts and feelings internally or out loud.

Being an ambivert is like running on a half battery. My personality confuses people. While I enjoy being alone, I am very outgoing and social. I can be loud or quiet. I like to vibe and meet new people, but my energy has an expiration. I can adapt to situations, but change is hard for me. It may take me longer to process what is going on around me before I become comfortable.

 

If I don’t find the valuable alone time I need to recharge, I cannot be my highest self. 

-Sylvester McNut III

 

My grandma asked me, “What do you do when you say you need time alone?” While I know myself, it’s difficult to express my actions and intentions in a way that makes sense to others. The best way I can describe it is by saying I need time to disconnect from outside stimuli and focus in on my own wants, needs, and desires.

 So, what do I do? I listen to music, write a blog, scroll on Pinterest or TikTok, nap, or drive. I watch my comfort show on Netflix, color a picture, paint my nails, braid my hair, or look back through old pictures and memories. I clean or organize as ways to feel “put together.” Overall, I keep in contact with myself. I provide time for my mind and body to realign with reality.

In the grand scheme, I prefer to be alone even if I’m always going. I would rather live, go grocery shopping, drive, eat, and sleep alone. I would rather do all these things by myself, but I still know how to manage doing these with others too.

Like I said, I confuse people with my personality, but it’s who I am. I have learned to love the parts of me that may seem odd to others. I have grown comfortable in my presence, which most people haven’t mastered. I must remind myself to be patient with others as much as I have to be patient with myself. For those of you that may have an ambivert person in your own life, be patient with them and allow them time to recharge. They can only perform at their best if they feel their best.

With love,

Jenna K. 

Location: Bozeman, MT, USA

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