Being social

[indysteel]

I was recently introduced to the Jungian concept of introversion/extroversion. The idea is that most people gain energy from being with others, but there are some people who need solitude to recharge. I'm one. Sounds like maybe you are, too. (This is independent of the common concepts of introversion or extroversion - someone can function well in social situations and even be a show-off, but still be drained by it emotionally.)

I think that's the definition the Myers-Briggs personality test uses to determine introversion/extroversion. There's a common misunderstanding of what it means to be introverted or extroverted. As you point out, most people define it as shy versus outgoing.

I, personally, am just slightly more introverted than extroverted--at least according to Myers-Briggs. In practical terms, it means I need some social interaction, but not too much. It makes for a bit of internal conflict, as I tend to make plans with other people rather readily and then come to regret it or purposely carve out some alone/down time, only to then feel lonely and sad. Cycling with other people is actually the perfect activity for me. It's social, but doesn't necessarily require constant conversation or interaction.