Text by Corina Tan
The terms ‘introvert’ and ‘extrovert’ are familiar to most of us, although we may sometimes struggle to correctly identify which box we fall into. Surprisingly, not everyone can be easily categorised as either one of these opposite personality spectrums, and in fact we are more than likely to identify with something in-between called an ambivert.
An ambivert is a person who possesses traits from both the introvert and extrovert personalities which means that you are more likely to be emotionally flexible. For example, a person may love being the life of the party which essentially falls into the extrovert category, but also share the thoughtfulness and preference for intimate conversations like an introvert.
“Ambiverts can get energy from being with people and from being alone and they can be self-reflective in situations and also work things through by talking with others.” says Paulette Kouffman Sherman, PsyD, psychologist and author.
There are many advantages to being an ambivert, and here are some signs that you may likely be one:
- You are reserved and quiet when you are not in the mood to be sociable, and yet other times you’re looking forward to being around people who energise you.
- You have a good sense of when to listen and when to be assertive. Extroverts are usually very trusting and open up easily whereas introverts tend to keep some distance until they get to know who they’re dealing with. Ambiverts know how to adapt to their environment and do either.
- You enjoy both stimulating as well as non-stimulating environments. You can thrive in a protest or enjoy a quiet evening alone as you gain energy from both situations and environments.
- You engage in a lot of varied type of activities including those that are full of people and can be over-stimulating, but also know when to dial it back when it gets too much.
- You are a good communicator because you know when to listen and have a distinct intuition about when it’s appropriate to speak. You love delving into deep meaningful conversations as much as engaging in small talk with a stranger. Having qualities of both an introvert and extrovert helps you to think before you speak.
- You can be indecisive because you see both the pros and cons to different scenarios. This can lead to confusion about which course of action to take, what situation you rather be in and whom you would prefer to spend time with.
- You can be both an excellent team player as well as being absolutely happy to go it alone. You are able to feed off creativity and energy in a group setting, and able to find the perfect balance of being the centre of attention versus being quiet. When working alone, you are able to source information, buckle down and dig deep to get things done.
- You are comfortable getting along with many different types of people with various extreme personalities. Instead of finding those personalities challenging, you are able to adapt and blend in, taking your cue from others. If someone is talkative and energetic, you can take a step back and allow that person to shine. When you are talking with someone who’s a bit more reserved, you have the ability to lead the conversation.
- You have the qualities of a good entrepreneur and can be both a good leader as well as a good follower. Having the ability to be friendly yet assertive, an ambivert is someone who can relate to all kinds of co-workers, become a great salesperson, and have a unique balance of enthusiasm and approachability.
