How to Tell If You're an Introverted Personality

Thank you for your article. I am dating an introvert male and have been trying to understand him for 1.5 years. I believe I also have introvert traits so it as been easy to understand his quiet time, but I do still struggle with it. I enjoyed reading your article, it helped me to understand even more. Even, more about myself.... thank you!

Everything I read here about introverts rings true with me. I've always been one and people have tried to force me to be extroverted but thats just not my personality. So, I think the first step for an introvert is to stop denying who you are and embrace it. Also, not trying to be someone you're not helps too. Most people in the world are extroverts so they dont usually understand us and make unfair prejudgments about introverts. Everyone is different and we should respect those differences.

am an introvert and i love that.
paulyne

I recently took a personality test at school and discovered that I'm an introvert. I wish I were an extroverted person though. Nursing is my major, but I'm considering switching majors. I have found my personality type to be very disabling to me. It has affected my friendships, work and family. I just have to find a way to work with my personality type. This article was very helpful!! I always wanted to be a nurse, but I rather be something else than a crabby nurse that doesn't like to be around people too long.

Honestly, now I feel relieved or I were cursing myself for being what I am!!Thanks for the article, it's much appreciated!!!

I'm highly introverted.
All the scores rang true to me indeed.

For my life situations, it hasn't really been a problem.
Some people misunderstood me for other aspects of me besides my reserve.

i am an intervert is there meds to take to become an extervert

oh thx so much
now i'm more convinved that i'm 'highly introverted' and nothing's wrong to be an introvert.
i'm proud being like this... ^ ^

I can relate to this article quite a bit. I am introverted and find the friends I do have respect me for who I am. I find some people don't understand me for me and can be disrespectful sometimes. I try to work around it and often struggle with it at times. I sometimes feel like a social outcast in my community because some people that don't really know me judge me and feel they don't want to know me, but that is their loss. As long as you know who you are, and you are happy with yourself that is all that counts. Be who God made you to be, if it is inate in you, and is a "default" not a fault,lol Then don't be ashamed of that. What you think of yourself is more important than what others think of you. Thanks for the article.

i answered yes to pretty much all of them, its nice in a way, because its something that acurately reflects me, but not nice at the same time, because i have previously denied who i was and thought i was extroverted (because of my more extroverted identical twin)... its hard to accept who i am sometimes. but i guess its the old saying, just work on your good bits, everyone has them. no point denying who you are. thanks for the artical, was uplifting.

I'm an introvert as well, although I love being introverted and wouldn't trade it to be extroverted.. I sometimes find myself sitting down looking at the people around me, and being jealous that they find it so easy to communicate with other people.. just the fact that they get to meet more people than I and share information with each other. that I can't listen to.. Anyways, I love listening to other people talk, just wish I could listen to more people talk..

im def an extro

More than the article,these peoples comments have helped me alot more,it shows im not the only person in the world shy to talk or just not want to talk at all cause you feel its unnecessary..you'd much rather save your breath for a decent/good conversation.
EMBRASS WHO YOU ARE! Thats the only way to be!

I knew i was an introvert...i hate that people say i am apathetic because i am quiet though * my friend is an extreme extrovert :(

I scored very high on the introversion scale...often I am critical of myself thinking I should try to be more outgoing, meet new people, change my life...but those things drain my energy. I would much rather think to myself while gardening, hanging out with my pets, going for walks, listening to music, reading, and being in small groups of people...no more than 4 at a time. Large groups scare the heck out of me, too much energy at once. Thanks for this insight!

i'm an introvert..and social interactions gives me a lot of pressure. If
i haven't known i'm this type--i'd really would've still believed that I'm weird (my family and friends are extroverts...) coz I don't get a lot of social interactions or rather, i prefer doing things alone; i find it hard to adjust with new people, and i find it hard making friends in situations that i really need to; i like to hang with people i can talk about deeper things, but it's hard to find these types of people. The info. truly help me understand and know myself more...although sometimes i wish i'd be more of an extrovert coz it's fun being interested in knowing a lot of people.

i'm an introvert..and social interactions gives me a lot of pressure. If
i haven't known i'm this type--i'd really would've still believed that I'm weird (my family and friends are extroverts...) coz I don't get a lot of social interactions or rather, i prefer doing things alone; i find it hard to adjust with new people, and i find it hard making friends in situations that i really need to; i like to hang with people i can talk about deeper things, but it's hard to find these types of people. The info. truly help me understand and know myself more...although sometimes i wish i'd be more of an extrovert coz it's fun being interested in knowing a lot of people.

Wow, I kind of knew that i was an introvert, but never knew there were this many others sharing the same feelings. I often feel like an outcast when everyone is babbling meaninglessly all the time. I don't like getting caught off guard either when someone asks me something before I'm ready. I thought I was kinda slow or something, but it's really that we're so caught up in our own mind that we're startled. It's hard being an introvert & trying to do the whole dating thing as well. Most girls want to have these long deep conversations about everything & nothing & I just really dont' care for conversations, untill I am truly comfortable with someone...

I have known a long time that I was introvert. I don't like it sometimes. Sometimes I wish I were a little more outgoing. I really don't have many friends and at times feel lonely and sad. I am married with two kids, but I feel like I am lacking in something, I just don't know what it is yet.

I have known a long time that I was introvert. I don't like it sometimes. Sometimes I wish I were a little more outgoing. I really don't have many friends and at times feel lonely and sad. I am married with two kids, but I feel like I am lacking in something, I just don't know what it is yet.

Being a introvert as well, I do feel just fine writing, or watching tv, or doing things on my own. I do feel comfortable with that but it makes it hard to meet other people. I dont want or need a lot of friends but when it comes to dating, however, it can be difficult. You see her, want to meet her, but just cant do it for some reason. You also wonder if your personalities will clash due to my introversion, especially if she is extroverted. I feel the same about feeling like a social outcast. It's like you're in your world and everyone else is in theirs and even though you're in the same room, you might as well be 1,000 miles away. Some people tell you that you need to be social but it is draining just like it would be for an extrovert to try to be an introvert. I believe we were all created this way for a reason so we should embrace it and make the most of it.

Wow. This article and everyone else's comments were very helpful. I am highly introverted and have always viewed it as a huge flaw. I've really struggled with it throughout my life... it's like I want to be more outgoing and I want more friends...but I've never understood why it was so hard for me to hold a conversation or to think of what to say when caught off guard. It can get so lonely sometimes when you prefer to be alone, or even when you're with a group of people (because you're mind is somewhere else)! It's so frustrating. I don't like to be perceived as a boring, quiet, or shy person... but maybe everyone is right.. you should accept and embrace who you are. There isn't anything wrong with being 'introverted'. Drama does tend to go somewhere else and you do tend to notice certain things that many extroverts don't. Thanks for the article and comments. It does help to know where I stand and why I prefer to be alone sometimes. I'm more at peace with myself now...but I still want to change how I feel and act when in a group setting. An introvert may describe who I am, but it doesn't define me.

it is nice to know that being an introvert is not a really bad thing. people really favor extroverts more, though, and we really can't do anything about it. i just wish that i can learn how to be with groups of people. for me, it's really tiring and very hard to do. i enjoyed reading the article! thank you! hope you can write more about introverts to help us out here, also thos who are having much difficulties, like me. more power to this site!

I am a huge introvert.What worries me is that it takes ages for me to talk and i am so self critical.I even make extrovert people quiet when they are around me.I have always been quiet but being a medical student requires some level of extroversity and i am struggling with the balance of being myself or trying to be something i am not.But in this case i need to change to some extent.I would apreciate any advice.

First, figure out why you're so self-critical! Take 15 minutes, find a quiet spot, and either write it down or really focus on how your self-criticism started.

Once you figure out the beginnings, then you might be able to separate those faulty reasons from the truth. That is, if you're hesitant to speak up because your older siblings always made fun of you or your dad was super critical, then you may be able to realize that speaking up when you're with your friends, colleagues, or potential patients is a whole different ballgame!

And then I'd suggest practicing. Practice sharing your opinions, thoughts, ideas, and feelings. This worked for me: I used to think that everything I said had to be brilliant or at least interesting, but then I slowly realized that I could point out a pretty tree or comment on my food, and people pick up the conversational ball and run with it!

Good luck - and thanks for posting. You'll find the balance between being yourself (which is crucial) and being open with your thoughts -- which really is part of being yourself! It's NOT yourself to be self-critical and scared. That's not the real you.

Best wishes, and feel free to update me,

Laurie

Thanks Laurie.I grew up in a single parent family with my mum.My brother and 3 sisters were way older than me and were working in other towns.So it was mostly me and mum.
I always use it as a mechanism sometimes, to avoid getting into an argument, i will just keep quiet.I especially find it hard to get into uncomfortable topics even with my husband.When we dated it took me months to say i love him,but now its natural.The problem is we never said things at home.We just knew from actions and assumed.And now i expect things to happen like that.I am slowly improving though.
I can talk without hesitation with people i know.but with strangers i have to try extra hard.Most of the times i am more drown to just keeping quiet.
I moved from my country 5 years ago to pursue my studies and i stay alone now,no family,I study in a foreign language i learnt when i got here which doesnt help.But it challanges my personality and helps me grow, which i like.So I will keep striving to improve.
I will take the practice advice with me.
I try to prepare more when i know i have a presentation to make at doctors meetings.It helps a lot.But i still shake with fear.
Thank you again

Its not perfect but its going in the right direction.So this site and posting really helped me.ciao.

Being a nurse and being an introvert is possible especially if you feel that it's your calling. I have been told that I don't have enough confidence and just recently someone accused me of being too soft. I am currently working on a Psych floor under contract and one of the supervisors on the floor felt that I was too soft spoken I guess she wanted me to just up and change my personality. She actually had the nerve to compare me to one of the extroverted nurses. I thought to my self how dare she...I am considering going to another floor.

hi thankyou for what you have wrote
i was always told i was shy when i was younger and had always strugled to change that for years..i do all the things and think all the thoughts of an introvert and after being in a large group or party being on my own is like being pluged in and recharged,how intresting to read all of this..ive met a lot of people in a lot of places but never discussed this subject
im proud to be introvert i just wished i knew thats what i was years ago and the people around me did but i guess thats part of growing up
keep up the good work
rick

im more introverted but i love rollercoasters lol im not highley intreverted im a bit extrovert but im more introverted like i perfere 2 or three friends rather than a big group but thing is i also love excitment so i think im a mixture

Oh my goodness people! I answered TRUE to every single statement. Have I broken some kind of record? I am "Highly introverted"

Wow I found this article really helpful. I also liked this - http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200303/rauch. I am 80% introverted AND shy, so it only exacerbates my problems. I have always felt so ashamed that I get tongue-tied and blush and hate when people put me on the spot, or even just come over and start a normal conversation when I am not "fully prepared". I have also always felt so depressed about getting so sick and tired of small-talk - my housemates are all extroverts and chatter all night long after work about NOTHING, about just the most trivial crap... I feel the minutes ticking by because I am so disinterested. Yet, as the article said, I love nothing more than a deep philosophical heart-to-heart with one person. It's just so rare to have the opportunity these days! Overall, while I am not happy with who I am just yet, at least I don't feel so alone, and maybe one day I can embrace who I am.

I am introvert and for the past year I've been a nurse on a large med-surg unit. I find that enjoy the interaction with the patients very much and the role has more to do with competency and confidence than with outgoing nature and small talk.

I wish everyone read these articles about introverts. I've gotten to be more extroverted about jumping into social situations, but I still require a LOT of time to process information. The bad thing about this is apparently everyone I know is an extrovert because everyone gets mad at me when I don't answer the second they finish talking.

I am only 15 and have a very difficult time toparticipate in
school events, sports, class projects, etc. I believe I'm capable
of doing thingx but it's difficult for me to join in even though I
want to. Is being an introvert a passed-down problem or am I my
own problem?

i have just taken the test and it is shocking how true it is, i am a very quiet person, always have been and people always knock me for it but now i know what the crack is so to speak, before i thought i was just an odd one out but after reading all the other comments i realise that it is quite common for some people to be an introvert so now i am a little bit more at ease with myself and wont be too self conscious anymore. thank you. Dan

love reading this article! it's pretty awesome.

janie:
i finally realize whats wrong with me:D i thought i had to change it,that i just had bad experiences in my past or sth.like that. now that i ve read all this,i actually can be calm and try to take the best of what i am and stop trying to be something that i m not.this really helped me.

I have always felt like there was something wrong with me. It was always in my nature to be "slow" as everyone who knows me would say. Everybody assumes I'm a pothead. I'm not that shy, but I'm not that outgoing either. I'd look at myself in the mirror and ask myself why can't I be more aggressive or assertive? It's almost as if I have to force it and like a lot of comments here said, it's "draining" trying to be outgoing. It's frustrating because girls find me attractive and I have a couple of good friends, but I was never a "ladies man" like my friends. The problem is, a lot of introverts here say, "embrace it", but like me, you all feel lonely and sad at times. You have to fight it, you can't just let life unfold around yourself and look at it from a distance. You have to do what my coach tells me as well as anyone else who knows me, you have to TRY. The sad part is, I know what I have to do, and I really do try, but everyone has their own personality and nature they will never be able to change.

I'm a girl who is 19 (from Norway, so sorry about the language) and in the past few years I've noticed that I have been more and more quiet. From I was 6 to I was 16 I went to a lot of social activities, but I never called a friend to hang out. When I was 16 (and started at a new school) i started to think about it, beecause I didn't find it hard to hang around friends when I first did it (at school), but my friends had to "drag me out" of my home, because I didn't find it boring or lonely to just be at home. After a year at the new school, I started to hang out with people, but it was always people who was calling me, and I am GLAD they did! When I am with people I don't know really well, I really enjoying be with them, but since I always have to think before I speak I ain't good at small talk with them, so I am scared they find me boring. I am blessed with a bestfriend who is soooo outgoing. I "use her" in social settings, because everybody is talking to her, and when I can talk to her I kind of join the whole group. I like to have a bestfriend, because it's mutch easier to relate to just one person at the time. This article helped me to see why I'm the way I am, THANK YOU! I am going to be a teacher, and I really don't think it's a problem for an introvert to be it, as long as you have confidence on yourself!

I am almost half and half, little more extro. The world is geared toward extroverts. I guess it would be financially beneficial for me to be even more extroverted, right?

I think there are ways to increase your financial success even if you have introverted personality traits! Try searching on Google for "tips for networking successfully for introverts" -- you'll find info on increasing your business skills, which can lead to making more money. :-)

Gosh, I am so glad I came across this article. It has really given me an understanding of who I am. I wish everyone else took these differences in personality into account. I have always thought something was wrong with me even as a kid. I was very intelligent but kept to myself and teachers always thought I was too quiet and reserve, but I have always enjoyed being alone. Never done well speaking in front of crowds, but could ace a written report and did well on test. This is who I am.

it's very informative :)) I know more about myself. proud to be an introvert. "I yam what I yam" - Popeye

I'm confused...I use to think I was an extrovert, but now after reading this article I possess more traits of an introverted person. Its so true in the article when it says that introverts often pay attention to detail, such as facial expressions and movements. I think introverts aren't necessarily quiet and shy, they just spend more time processing thoughts in their head and they usually think before they act.COOL! This article was a huge help!

I always figured myself for being more comfortable alone (or introverted I guess) but wow... only two falses? Guess this is just something to grow with.

Having answered 'true' to almost all of the above it is certainly good to know I am not alone. I have always thought that being reserved and happier alone or with few friends was a character flaw and something I should actively tried to change, I now realise that this is not the case and I should be happy being me!

The article was very helpful and reading comments from other introverts has made me feel less isolated and not like so much of an outcast, thank you!

I am proud to be an introvert. I enjoy the calm and find people that are extroverts are very annoying. I respect all introverted people. I find that they are quite intelligent human beings, and are a special breed. I am proud of all of you that are admitting and embrasing the aspect of being an introvert.

All except 2 of the statements are true to me, and it's hard having friends and family who are extroverts... I never knew there were this many people who were like me, it's refreshing to know.
I started believing I was a bit out there. :)
Highly appreciated. :)

I am 47 years old and "today", suddenly it all came together in my mind after I heard the word "introvert". When I was young, I felt extremely shy, I lived in the country and loved taking walks alone or being alone in my room or crawling up in the attic, I didn't like talking and misc conversations. Going to school was stressful for me as I didn't relate well to everyone else, I was never part of the "in" crowd. As I got older, I thought I was different, weird maybe, I wondered why I couldn't have fun like I saw other people having fun, why being involved in activities drained me, stressed me out so badly, why I couldn't feel what they felt. Why in the end, I was just glad to be home. Dr.s', therapists, etc. told me I had social phobia, anxiety, chronic depression all of which I've been treated on & off for with meds for over 20 years. I still wondered why I wasn't acting the way I thought I should, why I wasn't socialable, or why I hated the thought of any event someone would invite me to, why people in my life held shallow places. My family doesn't understand, no one understands I want to be home alone, that I love it that way, that the events they think are wonderful drain me completely of life. .. Funny I have yet another appointment today with a therapist and someone said the word Introvert. And I immediately researched that on the internet and found "myself"! What I am! ME!

I noticed that I purposely get to gatherings/parties early because I hate to walk in later with all the attention that gets focussed on who comes in. I'm an introvert and proud of it.

IM GLAD IM A introvert

I am and i hate it! :(

I am grateful that i have read this article. It gives me an idea to love myself as an introvert, that i am not the only one who finds hard time to mingle with other person.. especially strangers.... This article made me realize that being an introvert isn't bad at all.... thanks...

ahhh for the longest time i have wondered what is wrong with me, why am i so different from a lot of my peers and acquaintences. stumbling upon this and other articles clairified that there is nothing wrong with me. i'm so glad i had discovered this early in my life rather then asking the same questions over and over for the rest of my life.
thank you very much

Thank you! I scored very high. Now I know why i act the way i do. I feel better. Now when i get asked why im so quiet or why i don't join in i wont feel like im so wired. I don't know i just feel like i can accept it and not fight it now. :)

I got 17 trues. That's not enough. I'd like to be even more introverted.

Many people think being an introvert is bad. I think otherwise. When you are introvert, you get more time to do things that are beneficial.

I added up my answers & said YES to every single one. This test was as if someone just reached into my mind and pulled out what I was thinking. Thank you for adding another piece of literature to the overwhelming source of "me trying to figure how & why my personality is the way it is". I certainly don't mean that in a nasty way. I have been doing research on my personality for almost eight years now. I'm closer everytime I find an accurate description of Introvert personality type. I also happen to have a double whammy on myself, as I am not only introverted, but also a Capricorn. In any case, thank you for posting this, as every bit of information does help.

10 True of 23 so i guess im extro

I liked this article, everyone has been saying I don't get out enough but I knew it was something more and this proves it, I answered True to 18 questions and only answered False to 4 questions. I definitely have an Introverted Personality.

Oh god i'm a total introvert, everythiing but two of the statements (the one about making notes to self before a conversation and the other about the amusement park, although if the notes to self are not necessarilly written that was true too, i usually make thought notes to self for many things) were true for me... Well i'm not surprised, nor worried about it, i like to be that way actually, only it's annoying that people don't understand my way of thinking, my close friends do to a better extent but they sinc they are all kind of introverted themselves too but not to MY extent. It's not surprising either that most people that stumbled across this article (if not all) are introverts, i mean, like, any exfrovert would ever care, no offense though, even if i don't know how could possibly offend anybody with that, but it's always good to say it, just in case.

I didn't have to take the test to find out I was an introvert--I know. I've known pretty much all my life that I lean towards it. And I unfortunately have to disagree with most of the people who have previously commented. Most people here are saying that it's okay to embrace it, but it really is a crippling disadvantage in many ways--it's harder to make friends, get and have a partner, and be successful in your career. All of these involve the most paramount goals and desirable qualities in life. I'm definitely going to try my hardest to change what I don't like about my personality and keep what I do--my life is on the line.

At age 45, and being introverted for most of my life, i can tell you, it SUCKS.

It is of no benefit to be an introvert in the United States (can't speak for other countries). Americans like people who are loud and aggressive. Not quiet, thoughtful, and observant. It's unpatriotic or something.

I've been guilted, shamed, and criticzed for being introverted for years. I wish I could change because being this way has affected my work, my relationships, my earning power. So I have the ability to sit down, write in my unicorn journal, and do needlework. So I'm sensitive and a good listener. Woop de effing do. It is NOT worth it being an introvert.

Parents, please raise your kids to have decent social skills and get them socializing when they're young. Don't let kids stay cooped up in the house during summer vacations. Encourage them to start working summer jobs, internships, attend hobby groups, anything that will develop their skills and talents and interacting with others.

11/23..more extroverted than introverted. i guess i always scored introvert on online tests bc i have a bad case of SAD.

This article really opened my eyes to see who i really am inside. I feel much better about myself now. Thank you.

I scored somewhere in the middle, which I agree with, I don't mind crowds but don't LOVE them, I like having a few friends over, but always enjoy large parties from time to time. Things like that.

I think the personality test is great., however i accidentially closed the page before i could write all the information down on a piece of paper.

i love the article, if i may ask what does sanguine, have to do with this.

Thank you for such a relevant article, it emphasises something i've been thinking for a long time. i've always had difficulties connecting with other people, because most of the people i know are extroverts, i find that other people struggle to understand me and who i am. but in essence people like my family have always pushed me into 'opening up' as they call it, and they thought it would just come with time - which i will simply not buy into if i'm quite honest. opening up means removing myself from myself if that makes sense - effectively being who i'm not, and as much as i would like to be extroverted, - weighing up the pros and the cons i.e. the way other people see you and thier opinion on you, - i just don't see the point in being fake to please extroverts, it's pointless. i like who i am, quiet and everything, it's the way i am.

Thankyou. That was good :)
i worked out that i was 87% introverted from this
now i know why i feel so uncomftable around people!
Thankyou once again
xxx

I enjoyed reading the article. It shed some light onto what has always been a suspicion about my personality.In my early 20s I started having chronic nervous episodes because I enrolled into the university where everyone was expected to be outspoken. I could not be like everyone and that killed my self esteem a lot. I usually feel like I am dragged into situations where I am put under pressure to show off. But all my things work out very well and I am an over achiever to say the least. I have been through a very bad lifestyle where I had to drink alcohol to get the courage to talk in public. That has been really bad. I quit last year and I am boldly reverting to my personality. If no one likes me in that so be it.

Of the 23 questions, I answered true to 11, I guess I am ever so slightly extrovert?

i think i am a highly introverted.. mhaikhes

Introverts vs Extraverts, despite common belief, are actually about 50/50 in society. Most people think introverts HAVE to be shy, which isn't true. So most people probably don't even know they're introverts themselves.

I've always known the general meaning of the word "Introvert", but I didn't understand it fully, until recently. My entire life has been ruined by this personality trait. From age 6 to 13 I was so terrified by mortality that I couldn't sleep at night. I would always make a point of stating to my parents, before I lay down, “I will see you tomorrow”. It was like a promise that they had to make to me. I was afraid that if I went to sleep my respiratory system would fail. I stayed awake for two or three days at a time, until I couldn't resist sleep anymore. Finally, I forced myself to accept that death was inevitable. Now, I rarely panic at the onset of sleep. In school I was labeled "anti-social", and relegated to in-school suspension, alternative school, and day treatment. When I turned 15, I quit regular school for a home-school program and excelled. I enjoyed being in my room most of the time, and my friends still hung out with me a lot. However, as time went on, I felt like they got farther and farther away. They had their high-school years, with their experiences they shared with other high-school students, while I had no one. At 17, I got my GED and enlisted in the US Marine Corps. I think this was because of the "brotherhood" aspect of military life. Unfortunately, 2 months into training I was discharged for "Failure to Adapt to Military Lifestyle". After that, I tried technical school, and for a while I could bare it, but eventually, I couldn't stand to go into class. It was almost like torture. I dropped out. The same happened in college, a year later. My scores have always been top of the chart. I scored high enough on my ACT to enter calculus 1 without ever having sat through a whole year of Algebra. I'm extremely physically fit. I weight train every day. I just get so exhausted. Not physically, but mentally. When I'm forced to live in a squad-bay/dorm room at night, and mingle with thousands of people all day, my mind just gets foggy. Every day it gets worse, until I can't bare it anymore. I always thought there was something wrong with me. I thought I was defective. Sometimes I wondered if there was obvious outward signs of mental trauma. I wondered if everyone was just to polite to tell me the truth: that I was mentally retarded, or severely down syndrome. I often thought that there must be some kind of outward sign of how messed up I was, on the inside. I still wonder, sometimes. At 21, I still haven't grown out of this, like I'd hoped for so long. I want to be like my friends, my family, but mostly my father. He's always worked so hard. 10 to 16 hour days were, and still are, the norm for him. I wish I was that strong. For 21 years that I know of, he has been hard at work, with almost nothing to show for it. I always hoped I would develop his resolve and devotion, but I didn't. This is the first time I've ever shared most of these thoughts and experiences with any living person. As I write this, their memories bring tears to my eyes.

This is not an empathy post. I do not want, need, or deserve any pity. I just wanted to say what I've held in all my life. I feel good saying this to people who will never know me in the real world. It's almost like thinking about these experiences, but better.

My condolences to all the other sufferers. I sincerely hope you can find peace.

-J

im a happy introvert, score: 19

I m damn sure that i m a introvert.But if i love a person they can go with me r its difficult for them.(if the person i loved is an extr0verd).someone give me suggestion plz.

scored 22/23 which is surprising - i was going for 23! sheesh! missed out on cent percent...the only statement that's not true for me - "I sometimes react strongly to smells, touches, tastes, sounds, and people". love y'all who scored 20 or more!!

I'm introverted except for when it comes to social situations... I kind of already knew that. I think I just tend to be introverted when I'm around people I don't respect.
*cough* highschoolers *cough*

I'm an introvert and proud. I do not dismiss or dislike new people, I simply find social situations uncomfortable - even if I can talk easily to them. Last night I told myself that I was gonna change myself and never look back, now that I know I belong somewhere... I'm happy being me and no one else :)

excellent

-J

You described my childhood almost to a T. But I would also worry about loved ones dying around me. It troubled me so bad at nights that I was comatized. I am now 36 and I don't know how I got here. There have been many nights of excessive drinking and over medicating a back injury that I received in a car wreck at 17 that I would wake in the night in a cold sweat. I never felt worthy and frankly didn't care if I passed away in my adult years. I always thought I was just not made for this planet. I am now successful in my career in the transportation industry and have found that if people start acting weird around you just let them know that the field in which you work requires a little bit of an introverted loaner. Luckily my wife of 12 years is as introverted as I am and we get along fantastic! Look for the quiet partner and you wont be disappointed. Good luck everyone!

-J you put a grown man to tears
JR

Wow. I answered 'true' to every one of these. An eye-opening experience :)

WOW O.O.......
I actually only had 3 false... I'm gonna be in trouble if I graduate from high-school like this, aren't I?

8 'true'

My MBTI type is ENFP. Sounds about right I'd say :)

great article....I thought I was the only one like that. Glad to know there is nothing wrong with me...i feel special

wow start from now i know who i am and that i need to embrace who i am no more to try to be someone that i am not. i am 18 and high school stressed me a lot and i finally dropped out hs as i couldn't get alone with people.. during high school i always felt that there was always something is wrong with me when it comes to socialize with people and i need to change that even i didnt know what it was and then i start using drugs, hang out with people that i didnt even understand what they were doing just to to be cool and be someone that i wasnt ..gradually i realized whatever i was with life didnt help to get i want which was to be more fund and outgoing person and then stoped using all drugs then all the friends that i used to call me to hang out stop calling me and hang out with me, weird right..... finally i started praying to allah and changed my all past, and everything is working good with me now as i trust in god and stop imitating others, honestly i am currently having hard time dating i dont know wht to do, all girls likes to talk abt alot nonesende shit and i dont like talkin abt something that make senses, or small talks....... i dont know may alllah help me iwth this i am planing to be wealth person in the future insha allah

wow start from now i know who i am and that i need to embrace who i am no more to try to be someone that i am not. i am 18 and high school stressed me a lot and i finally dropped out hs as i couldn't get alone with people.. during high school i always felt that there was always something is wrong with me when it comes to socialize with people and i need to change that even i didnt know what it was and then i start using drugs, hang out with people that i didnt even understand what they were doing just to to be cool and be someone that i wasnt ..gradually i realized whatever i was with life didnt help to get i want which was to be more fund and outgoing person and then stoped using all drugs then all the friends that i used to call me to hang out stop calling me and hang out with me, weird right..... finally i started praying to allah and changed my all past, and everything is working good with me now as i trust in god and stop imitating others, honestly i am currently having hard time dating i dont know wht to do, all girls likes to talk abt alot nonesende shit and i dont like talkin abt something that make senses, or small talks....... i dont know may alllah help me iwth this i am planing to be wealth person in the future insha allah

I had a comment today that I seemed like an introvert person. Being curious about what this means, I googled it, and have now read a lot about it. I must say I am astonished at how many similarities I can draw between my own personality and the things that will define you as an introvert. I struggle with depression and eating disorders as well, so it won't make my social situation better, but looking away from this I am quite convinced that this is what I am and to be honest, I feel quite proud to be it as apparently a lot of gifted people are. And, I have been called gifted by teachers before too. I felt my confidence rise now - thank you.

So I'm an introvert... I always knew it but have never put a label on it.

Living at university with 4 other guys who are all extroverts - not just any old extroverts but the loudest most attention seeking antisocial extroverts that you'll ever meet. BUT although I cherish time to myself, living in this environment has brought a certain balance to my personality. Not confidence because I've always been a confident person, but I feel that whether you're an extrovert or an introvert, learning to become more of the other (if that makes sense) is the most benifitial thing you can do. Aknowledge what sort of person you are but dont let that define you.

So I'm an introvert... I always knew it but have never put a label on it.

Living at university with 4 other guys who are all extroverts - not just any old extroverts but the loudest most attention seeking antisocial extroverts that you'll ever meet. BUT although I cherish time to myself, living in this environment has brought a certain balance to my personality. Not confidence because I've always been a confident person, but I feel that whether you're an extrovert or an introvert, learning to become more of the other (if that makes sense) is the most benifitial thing you can do. Aknowledge what sort of person you are but dont let that define you.

This article is not a function of an accurate personality assessment, nor was it ever intended to be. This article exists to give the reader and identity, a group or sort of club to be a part of. There is nothing wrong with this, of course, but don't pretend for a second that there exists such thing as an "introvert". I postulate that many "introverts" and "extroverts" are people who've succumb to the self fulfilling prophecy that is "personality". There is nothing determining your behavior but your emotions, which are liable to fluctuations. Don't rope yourself in to introversion or extroversion, just be yourself in your reactons on a case by case basis.

I always knew I was kind of an introvert but after reading this I know that all these little things that no one understands is still more of my introversion! I'm happy that there are people like me out there.

I don't think it is fair how others try to judge introverts. They make false judgements that can sometimes be hurtful, and very harmful. If anything nobody should try to 'change' who you are. I also think that introversion is good, and I enjoy being one. So nobody should change who they want to be, for anyone.
-Anonymous

I liked the article. But then I had no problem in answering true to all but two of the statements.
Me being "shy" and "backward" i guess is normal. My extroverted husband loves me, so I don't care.

Lol, Still reading this is 2011~ :D
This article relates to me so much. Its kind of hard being an introvert...
Especially when you're in highschool.
I'm a 15 yr old girl who has trouble everywhere I go.
Malls, Amusement parks, Parties (even with my relatives), Worst part is school.
Even just walking in the halls of school drains my energy. I think I have a problem.
What's weird with me is that... I like being alone... but at the same time no because I dont want to be considered as a Loner. (Some might say also. Even my parents, which doesn't help at all.)
I've been like this since I was... I think... 6th grade till 9th. (Going to be a Sophomore.)
I wonder if I'll be able to change...

this helped

I always knew that I was an introvert. With how we are, we shouldn't aspire to anything we don't want to. I don't want to be extroverted because I can't relate to most people anyways.

I'm definitely an introvert. People have to remember that there's a continuum. I'm probably a closer to the middle introvert. I love amusement parks, concerts; but not the crowds - but the thrill of the ride and the music itself. I also enjoy parties, so long as they're not too huge and the emphasis is on playing games or doing things with people as opposed to conversation. If I could hang on the outskirts, listen and jump in to comment when something of interest comes up, that's my type of socializing. Of course, I still "hit a wall" at some point and need to wander off to be alone. I can't go very long without retreating into my head to read, write, draw or enjoy a movie or something. I've always been that way. That's how I know I'm introverted!

This article and the comments helped alot. I'm in a bad place right now, I haven't been able to stop thinking and worrying about my "introvertedness". I was humiliated in front of my family by my mother for being an introvert but I'm just not outgoing, and I'm not sorry for it. Now I would normally say I'm perfectly happy with a couple of good friends as opposed to a whole bunch, but my one "friend" is showing me now that people can be real jagoffs, and honestly I feel like I can't trust anyone other than myself. I feel like there's something wrong with me, only because of all of the people who have looked down upon me. You guys made me realize that the issue isn't with myself, it's with the judgemental and prejudiced nature of society. I'm sure my low self-esteem, self doubt, and paranoia aren't helping the situation either. I don't mean to sound whiny, I just needed to get this off of my chest somewhere anonymously. Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this, and if you're in a bad place also, I wish you the best.

I took the intervert quiz and I was born past 1993. I was born in 1996. The quiz only let me selecet my year of birth between 1908 and 1993! I think I am intervert though. I don't like sharing my feelings with anyone.:)