We all use both our introverted and extroverted skills, but we are hard wired to be more one than the other. Look at the lists below and determine which one feels more like YOU!

Not every aspect will fit exactly for you because we are all unique. If you don't feel like you fit one side more than the other, even by 51% to 49%, then ask yourself this question: If there is an emergency do you tend to stand still and feel somewhat shutdown or in slow motion? If you have a standstill reaction to stress more often, then you are probably an introvert. In a crisis do you tend to move your body immediately and feel like taking action, maybe without pausing to think? Then you are probably an extrovert if you react with movement. Under stress we can experience our innate temperament. Look over the two lists and think about how you ARE, not as you'd like to be. If your still uncertain, as a last ditch effort, ask someone you trust and who is honest to read these and suggest which one sounds more like you.

Enjoy time alone
Consider only deep relationships as friends
Feel drained after outside activities, even if they were fun
Good listener
Appear calm and self-contained
Think then speak or act

Like to be in the thick of things
Relish variety
Know lots of people, considers lots of people friends
Enjoy chit-chatting, even to strangers
Feel stoked after activity
Speak or act then think OR think while speaking

Self Assessment for Introverts

• Take short rests before you are tired
• Write in time-outs on your daily calendar
• Include nature every day, sit in the yard, go for a walk, look at trees or set a soothing outdoor picture on your table
• Create down time to store energy before any big event
• Remind yourself its OK to be introverted

At Work

• Since you may not speak in meetings, write a memo to co-workers/boss afterward with your comments and suggestions
• Tell your boss you need to think before you can discuss your thoughts
• Say thank you if someone gives you a compliment
• Include yourself by coming early to meetings to help set up or clean up afterwards
• Say hello to people, smile and say thank you to presenters at the end of meetings

Relationships

• Leave notes for those you care about
• Talk about your differences based on your temperaments
• Discuss how to clear up conflicts
• You have the capacity to enjoy private time
• Plan for couple and friend time

Socializing

• Choose which events you want to attend, it's OK to decline invitations
• Remind yourself you may feel overstimulated at social gatherings and that is OK
• Stay on the side-lines and observe before you enter festive occasions
• Decide when you will arrive and leave, you can always stay longer if you feel peppy enough
• Wear an interesting piece of jewelry or tie (usually guys) as a conversation starter

Dealing with Introverted Children

• Explain introverted qualities to your child
• Never correct your child in front of others
• Let them watch before entering an activity
• Encourage breaks to recharge
• Realize they need time to think before responding to questions