Innie or Outie?

Are you an innie or an outie?

Did you know that 75% of the world's population are extroverts? I'm reading a really good book about introverts called The Introvert Advantage by Marti Laney. I have learned that the primary difference between introverts and extroverts is in the way they create their energy. Extroverts get their energy from outside sources. They are energized by talking to people and by lots of activities. Introverts draw energy from being alone with their ideas, emotions and impressions. They feel overstimulated by being around a lot of people.

Introverts live in a world biased in favor of extroverts. Contrary to popular belief they may not be shy and really do like people--just not too many people for too long a time! They need a less stimulating environment to recharge their energy. I'm beginning to see how my extrovert daughter might have felt a little misunderstood by introvert parents! And now she's raising at least one introvert herself!

Another difference is that introverts use long-term memory when talking to people while extroverts use short-term memory. Extroverts are quicker and think on their feet. Introverts often miss the opportunity to get into a conversation because their mind goes blank--it takes longer to retrieve their thoughts out of long-term memory. They also don't like to interrupt. Extroverts just charge into conversations, interrupting each other and leaving the introverts standing their feeling a little stupid.

The world is certainly a more interesting place because we are not all alike. Innies and Outies married to each other face special challenges. It does help to understand that both ends of the spectrum are okay--just different. I know it helped this introvert to see some reasons I am like I am.