4 Shades Of Introversion: Inside The 4 Introverted Minds. Which Are You?

The introvert, perhaps you have already heard of the term, or perhaps, you are one. Whatever the case is, it is important to familiarise yourself with the characteristics that shape an introvert and not rely on preconceived perceptions of what an introvert is.

People label introverts as “shy” or “anti-social”, but there is more to an introvert than meets the eye. Introverts require time by themselves, away from social noise and distraction to avoid being emotionally drained, however, there is not only one way to be an introvert.

According to research, Jonathan Cheek, Julie Norem and Jennifer Grimes, three psychology professors at Wellesley College, concluded that there are four subtypes of introverts: social, thinking, anxious and restrained.

Each subtype is categorised according to their traits, with their strengths and weaknesses. Thus, an individual may be able to identify themselves as a specific type of introvert or relate to two or all four.

Being able to identify and accept your type of introversion, may assist you in understanding the inner workings of your mind and behavioural patterns, to help you cope with day-to-day activities and building relationships with others.

Personally, being an introvert myself, I always found it very difficult to communicate with others and that gave people the impression that I was rude or stuck-up, when truly it was just my introverted nature.

Through this very informative research, I have been able to relate to two subtypes of introversion: anxious and restrained, since then I have been practically applying various tips to help me in daily encounters with others but most importantly, I was able to improve myself.

With that in mind, let’s break down the four types:

1. The Social Introvert:

As weird as it may sound, social introverts are both the most outgoing and private amongst the four. Their anxiety or shyness isn’t easily triggered in social settings but feel emotionally exhausted if exposed for too long.

Social introverts prefer having a close network of friends they can depend on and interact with rather than being in a large crowd and large social settings.

From time to time, social introverts also desire time alone to recharge.

Tips for Social Introverts:

• Take a timeout away from social noise and dedicate some time to yourself.

• Do not emotionally exert yourself at social events to make others happy.

• Always schedule some time with close friends and family who understand your introverted nature.

2. The Thinking Introvert:

As the saying goes, "head in the clouds", thinking introverts are introspective individuals, who are in tune with their feelings.

Thinking introverts don’t mind being social but rarely do so because they are too busy self-reflecting or as the name would suggest, thinking.

Thinking introverts are mostly misunderstood by others because of their unique thought process and often “zone out” as they cannot hold a conversation for very long until heading off into the clouds again.

Tips for Thinking Introverts:

• Make time to reflect on yourself and your thoughts through something emotionally beneficial such as journaling.

• Engage in a hobby that will allow you to express your creativity and stimulate your imagination.

• Try to avoid losing touch with reality often when out in social settings, instead try to build meaningful relationships with others.

3. The Anxious Introvert:

Often replays social encounters in their head or overly think about what they did or said is just some of the traits displayed by the anxious introvert.

Anxious introverts are painfully self-conscious and desire isolation even amongst close family or friends. They purposely excuse themselves to avoid socialising and feel extremely uncomfortable in any social setting, especially in unfamiliar ones.

Anxious introverts may also display behaviours related to social anxiety disorders. Although, it is important to remember that all personality types may experience some symptoms related to social anxiety or other anxiety disorders.

In extreme cases, those suffering from anxiety disorders display strong physical reactions when in social settings, such as: trembling or shaking, fear, hyperventilation, increased heart rate, etc.

Consult a professional should you suspect that you have an anxiety disorder.

Tips for Anxious Introverts:

• Practise different ways that help in managing anxiety, such as breathing exercises, yoga, etc.

• Prioritise your wellbeing and don’t pressure yourself into situations that make you uncomfortable.

• Communicate with your family and friends about your anxiety. Alternatively, consult a professional for advice.

4. The Restrained Introvert:

Restrained introverts are characterised as being guarded, reserved and thoughtful individuals who find serenity in their routine.

Restrained introverts do not like change and do not like being rushed into situations, especially social ones. They do not mind going out if they have planned for it well in advance, but would rather spend time alone, doing their favourite activities and thrive on routine.

Restrained introverts may also experience dysania – which is the state of finding it difficult to get out of bed in the morning.

Tips for Restrained Introverts:

• Develop a daily routine that involves positive and productive activities that target your physical, mental, and emotional health.

• Schedule some time to spend with friends and family to avoid total isolation.

Now that we have laid out all four types of introverts, perhaps you have already identified which type you are. Introversion isn't all bad; remember there are other introverts in the world, in fact, there are some celebrities that identify themselves as introverts such as, Emma Watson, J.K. Rowling, Meryl Streep and Mark Zuckerberg, to name a few.

Being an introvert does not mean you have a behavioural defect; it just means you have a different way of thinking and operate differently compared to other personality types, so take pride in the introvert you are!