There are people who prefer to be in quiet environments, They highly value time alonesince it allows them to recharge energy. They are what we know as introverted peoplewhich explains to us Rebeca Cáceres Alfonsodirector of Tribeca Psychologists and professor at the International University of Valencia, does not imply that they are necessarily shy. But the truth is that sometimes they are accused of being dull, of living ‘inside’ and that can make them less happy. Is this true?
Traits of introverts
The first thing we have to do is define some characteristics and preferences of introverts, among which we can highlight the following:
- They prefer quiet environments and not very stimulating.
- They enjoy and They value time alone to recharge energy.
- They search deep interactions and significant.
- They have a great capacity to introspection and reflection.
- They usually have a great listening ability.
- They prefer small social circles and intimate.
- They are carefulreflective and think before acting or speaking.
- They avoid social hustle and bustle and the great crowds.
An introvert can be happy if he respects himself, his tastes, his needs and knows in which environments and with which people he can be best.
© Getty ImagesIs there a relationship between introversion and happiness?
One of the doubts that we raised is whether the introverted people are less happy. The psychologist does not believe that there is a relationship between introversion and happiness. “Happiness depends rather on authenticity and the ability of each person to live in coherence with their values and needs. An introvert can be happy if he respects himself, his tastes, his needs and knows in which environments and with which people he can be best. The key is to accept yourselfunderstand each other and build a life according to the essence and needs of each one,” argues the psychologist.
Advantages and disadvantages of introversion
The truth is that like all personality traits, Introversion has its benefits and challenges. “Among the advantages, the ability to reflect in depth and find creativity in solitude. These people usually have great listening skills and tend to establish solid and sincere bonds,” he details.
However, the psychologist adds that they can face challenges when society or the professional environment requires them to do social exposure tasks, which can lead to feel pressured or misunderstood.
“It is also true that for many people it can lead them to work internally on these aspects and it can be a reason to grow and successfully overcome difficulties. Being an introvert is not a sign that you must live with for life assuming certain characteristics. It is simply one characteristic among the many characteristics that people have,” he indicates.
Among the advantages of introversion, the ability to reflect deeply and find creativity in solitude stands out.
Different types of introversion
Yes, we can affirm that there are different types of introversion. “It is not a single and homogeneous trait. As I said before, it depends more on the person and many other factors that come together. There are people who we could say are more socially introverted (they prefer smaller social circles) while others are more introspectively introverted (they like to spend time in their internal world)”, Rebeca Cáceres tells us.
Are there differences between shyness and introversion?
As the expert already anticipated, introversion and shyness are different concepts. “Shyness is related to fearincluding anxiety, in social situations, which can cause a person to avoid social contact. Introversion, however, does not imply fear; It is simply a preference for quiet environments and for activities alone or with few people,” he comments.
It is important to understand and respect their need for space and time alone
Living with an introvert
In the opinion of Rebeca Cáceres, there is no specific coexistence with an introverted person. “I think you just have to keep in mind that they are Respectful, understanding people with great listening skills. It is important to understand and respect their need for space and time alone,” he tells us.
“As in any harmonious coexistence that is intended, I believe it is important take into account mutual understandingrespect for the needs of others and a deep acceptance of the person that the other is,” concludes the Tribeca psychologist.