Introverted Extrovert or Extroverted Introvert?
We’ve all heard the terms introvert and extrovert. But did you know that there are also introverted extrovert types and extroverted introvert types? From protectors to explorers to ambiverts and omniverts, there are a wide range of personalities and preferences. Let’s take a journey through these different types so that you can better identify which one fits you best.
Introverted extroverts and extroverted introverts
Let’s start with the basics: introverted extroverts and extroverted introverts. As their names suggest, these two types of people have traits from both worlds. An introverted extrovert might be comfortable in social settings, but still needs some time alone to recharge their batteries. Alternatively, an extroverted introvert may prefer being in a one-on-one setting or small group rather than a large group setting. These types will also often need some alone time after socializing for too long.
What is an Introverted Extrovert like?
Next up is the protector archetype, which is made up of the four MBTI introverted judging types—ISTJ, ISFJ, INFJ, INTJ—who prefer organized aspects in life such as planning ahead or following rules/procedures to get things done efficiently.
Introverted extroverts may say things like:
- “I have this really cool special interest that I can speak about for hours!”
- “I love to make people laugh”
- “It’s important for me that people take me seriously”
- “It is no problem for me to be outgoing if it’s necessary in order to advance my goals.”
- “Generally, I enjoy engaging other people with my work or values”
- “I don’t like going to other people for feedback and information.”
- “I can be outgoing, but I am also very careful with what I share and how I do things.”
- “People often describe me as a mother or father-figure in social situations.”
- “I take responsibility for other people naturally.”
- “I tend to take on whatever role is necessary for the group”
What is an Extroverted Introvert Like?
On the other hand, those belonging to the explorer archetype—ESTP, ESFP, ENFP, ENTP—are typically more spontaneous and free-flowing in life as they prefer exploring opportunities rather than sticking to plans or procedures set out by others.
As an extroverted introvert, you may say things like
- “I like to be out and have fun but I also need a lot of time to myself to recharge my batteries.”
- “I’ve noticed that I can be very engaged with a conversation and all of a sudden turn quiet”
- “I tend to become quiet under stress”
- “I like to always keep busy with new things”
- “If something doesn’t interest me I tend to zone out”
- “I don’t like to wait when making decisions”
- “If I have to wait, I start overthinking decisions quickly.”
- “It’s very important for me that I can be myself around others”
- “I prefer relaxed and expectation-free social situations”
- “I value my individuality and don’t like to conform to the group”
“Ambiverts, on the other hand, fall somewhere in the middle of the introvert-extrovert spectrum. They have a balance of qualities from both ends of the spectrum, so they can adapt to a wider range of social situations. Omniverts, a newer term, are similar to ambiverts but tend to lean more toward extroversion. They are often adventurous and enjoy a variety of experiences, but they also need time to recharge and be alone.”
The Ambivert Vs Omnivert
Ambivert vs omnivert? The difference between the two is that the Ambivert is more of a Protector, focusing on responsibility, organisation and balance, and the Omnivert is more of an adventurer, focusing on a balance between time alone and time going out on new adventures.
Ambiverts and omniverts exhibit traits from both sides of the coin – they can have moments where they express themselves more like an extrovert as well as moments where they express themselves more like an introvert depending on the situation at hand. Examples of famous ambiverts include Benedict Cumberbatch who is so conscientious, that he is always working on a new project or recording for a new movie, yet he is relatively private with himself and his own personal life; whereas examples of omniverts include people who, despite being extroverted, tend to be so easygoing and spontaneous, that they don’t bother with asserting themselves or putting themselves out there in the world. They want to enjoy the world – not shape or control it. Omniverts tend to also score relatively high in Individualism, and this can make them avoid group work and social structures they perceive as controlling or restrictive.
Are you an introverted extrovert or an extroverted introvert?
No matter what label best describes you – protector/explorer/ambivert/omnivert – understanding how your personality works will help you live life with intentionality while staying true to yourself in any situation. Knowing how your particular personality prefers functioning will also help you create meaningful connections with others by allowing them into your world without sacrificing your own comfort levels or preferences along the way. This journey through different types has hopefully given you insight into yourself as well as those around you. To get to know yourself better, take my personality test!
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