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In today’s world, where visibility is often rewarded, extroversion has become a cultural ideal. From workplaces to social settings, the loudest voices tend to get the most attention. But is extroversion truly superior? The truth is, both introverts and extroverts contribute to society in valuable ways.
Over the past 150–200 years, we have shifted from valuing inner virtues to prioritizing outward charisma. After the French Revolution, societies became more performative, and the ideal person was an outgoing salesman. This shift brought an unintended consequence: anxiety. By the 1960s, anti-anxiety medications were among the most prescribed drugs, highlighting the immense pressure people felt to conform to an extroverted ideal.
Breaking the Myth: Introversion vs. Extroversion
Labeling people as simply introverts or extroverts is misleading. Society often pushes the idea that success, confidence, and strong social connections are tied to extroversion. However, many highly successful leaders, such as Barack Obama, Bill Gates, Hillary Clinton, and Mahatma Gandhi, are introverts. Their ability to listen, analyze deeply, and approach decisions with caution has contributed to their effectiveness.
Introversion isn’t a weakness—it’s a different strength. Yet, much of the modern world is designed for extroverts. Restaurants with communal tables, open-plan offices, and a constant emphasis on teamwork often overlook the needs of introverts. In many ways, society fails to create spaces where introverts can thrive.
Why Are Some People Introverts?
The answer lies in the brain. The amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing new and potentially threatening situations, plays a key role. When it is more active, individuals tend to be more cautious and sensitive to their surroundings—traits commonly found in introverts.
Introverts process information more deeply and for longer periods. They are not anti-social; they simply have a different way of engaging with the world. Their heightened sensitivity means they experience external stimuli more intensely. Even food and drinks like caffeine or alcohol can have a stronger effect on introverts compared to extroverts.
How Introverts Experience the World Differently
• Sound Sensitivity: Introverts prefer lower volumes, while extroverts often enjoy louder environments.
• Energy Levels in Social Settings: Introverts may feel drained in large gatherings faster than extroverts because their brains are processing more stimuli.
• Emotional Depth: They have a stronger sense of empathy and tend to remember dreams more vividly.
• Rule-Oriented Thinking: Introverts are more likely to follow rules and feel uncomfortable with surprises.
• Mindset Differences: Extroverts focus on “What’s happening now?” while introverts ask, “What if?”
A World That Favors Extroverts
Society often forces introverts out of their comfort zones, expecting them to adapt to extroverted norms. While growth sometimes requires discomfort, it’s important to recognize and respect different personality types. Instead of forcing introverts to become more extroverted, we should create environments where both can thrive.
At Newself, we believe in embracing all personality types. Mental wellness is about understanding yourself and finding balance—not fitting into a mold. Whether you recharge in solitude or thrive in social settings, your personality is a strength, not a limitation.
Final Thought
In a world designed for extroverts, introverts are often misunderstood. But their quiet strength, deep thinking, and thoughtful decision-making are invaluable. The key is not to change who we are but to create a society where both introverts and extroverts can succeed on their own terms.
Want to explore more about self-awareness and mental wellness? Join Newself on your journey to a healthier mind.
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