Introversion is the social preference to spend time with oneself and expend one’s energy by looking and feeling inward rather than outward. <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"Introverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>Introverts</a> prefer alone time to social interactions and intimate settings to large groups. Psychologist Carl Jung classified humans into two main groups: introverts and <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert","linkCopy":"extroverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>extroverts</a> (or extraverts). The spectrum of introversion and <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert","linkCopy":"extroversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>extroversion</a> is a key aspect of human personality.

Introversion and extroversion (or extraversion) are two of the big five personality traits, along with neuroticism, openness, and conscientiousness. Personality tests, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, help people identify personality types and understand their cognitive functions.
Introverts and extroverts seek energy in different ways. Introverts require fewer stimuli, reflect in quiet, and prefer one-on-one friendships. Extroverts enjoy more stimulation and can boost dopamine by reflecting outwardly when processing feelings, spending time with others, and meeting new people in large groups.

Sometimes people display <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert","linkCopy":"ambiversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>ambiversion</a>, a combination of introverted and extroverted personalities. <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert","linkCopy":"Ambiverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>Ambiverts</a> might enjoy a mix of extroversion-introversion preferences, which can mean they experience validation through both alone time and social situations. Both are necessary depending on the person’s mood or desires.
Introversion and shyness can overlap for some personalities, but these qualities are distinct. Introverts and shy people avoid being the center of attention and might experience social anxiety. Generally, introverted people can [start conversations](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-conversation), make small talk, and navigate social interactions more readily than shy people, especially with small groups. Introversion describes people who prefer higher levels of internal to external stimulation. Alone time is energizing for introverts, but they can still exhibit agreeableness and social skills in social settings.
The following personality traits align with being an introvert. Consider the signs of introversion:

1. __You are comfortable with alone time__. Introverts can travel and engage in hobbies alone without feeling the need to share that particular time with others. Introverts tend to focus on their own thoughts.
2. __You prefer smaller social gatherings__. Both introverts and extroverts can be sociable, the difference is that the former prefers shorter social situations with smaller groups of people. For example, introverts might enjoy social activities like [dinner parties](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/dinner-party-recipes) or book clubs.
3. __You think before you speak__. Introverts often consider how they want to respond to a question or comment before replying and are likelier to be quiet and contemplative in group settings. If you often [think before you speak](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-think-before-you-speak), you might be introverted.
4. __You value unique experiences__. A personality assessment might classify you as an introvert if you prefer special activities specific to your interests that command your emotional and intellectual attention.
Being an introvert can have advantages. Consider the following attributes and benefits of this personality trait:

1. __Attention to detail__: Introverts often care about details others might forget or overlook.
2. __Good listening skills__: Introverts tend to think before they speak, which means they can be more thoughtful, wise, and considerate. Introverted people are often [effective listeners](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effective-listening).
3. __Positive well-being__: Engaging in alone time can boost [self-esteem](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem) and improve [mental health](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health).
4. __Strong sense of self__: Introverts prefer to spend time with themselves, which gives them more opportunities to reflect on who they are and what they want. Introverts have a strong sense of self. There is a misconception that introverts have a narrow view of the outer world, but introspection can give them a broad perspective. 
5. __Quality friendships__: Introverts prefer a smaller social group, which means they are more selective about [friendships](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/value-of-friendship) and how they spend their time socializing. Introverts tend to have close friends.
Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.
In social psychology, <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"introversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>introversion</a> is a personality quality describing people who recharge by spending time with themselves. Learn about the benefits of quality alone time and the signs of introversion.

In social psychology, <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"introversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>introversion</a> is a personality quality describing people who recharge by spending time with themselves. Learn about the benefits of quality alone time and the signs of introversion.

Introversion Definition: 4 Signs of Introvert Personalities

Introversion is the social preference to spend time with oneself and expend one’s energy by looking and feeling inward rather than outward. <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"Introverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>Introverts</a> prefer alone time to social interactions and intimate settings to large groups. Psychologist Carl Jung classified humans into two main groups: introverts and <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert","linkCopy":"extroverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>extroverts</a> (or extraverts). The spectrum of introversion and <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-extrovert","linkCopy":"extroversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>extroversion</a> is a key aspect of human personality.Introversion and extroversion (or extraversion) are two of the big five personality traits, along with neuroticism, openness, and conscientiousness. Personality tests, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, help people identify personality types and understand their cognitive functions.

What Is Introversion?

Introverts and extroverts seek energy in different ways. Introverts require fewer stimuli, reflect in quiet, and prefer one-on-one friendships. Extroverts enjoy more stimulation and can boost dopamine by reflecting outwardly when processing feelings, spending time with others, and meeting new people in large groups.Sometimes people display <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert","linkCopy":"ambiversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>ambiversion</a>, a combination of introverted and extroverted personalities. <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-ambivert","linkCopy":"Ambiverts","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>Ambiverts</a> might enjoy a mix of extroversion-introversion preferences, which can mean they experience validation through both alone time and social situations. Both are necessary depending on the person’s mood or desires.

Introvert vs. Extrovert: What’s the Difference?

Introversion and shyness can overlap for some personalities, but these qualities are distinct. Introverts and shy people avoid being the center of attention and might experience social anxiety. Generally, introverted people can <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-conversation' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-conversation","linkCopy":"start conversations","category":null}'>start conversations</a>, make small talk, and navigate social interactions more readily than shy people, especially with small groups. Introversion describes people who prefer higher levels of internal to external stimulation. Alone time is energizing for introverts, but they can still exhibit agreeableness and social skills in social settings.

Are Introverts Shy?

The following personality traits align with being an introvert. Consider the signs of introversion:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. You are comfortable with alone time. Introverts can travel and engage in hobbies alone without feeling the need to share that particular time with others. Introverts tend to focus on their own thoughts. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. You prefer smaller social gatherings. Both introverts and extroverts can be sociable, the difference is that the former prefers shorter social situations with smaller groups of people. For example, introverts might enjoy social activities like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/dinner-party-recipes' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/dinner-party-recipes","linkCopy":"dinner parties","category":null}'>dinner parties</a> or book clubs. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. You think before you speak. Introverts often consider how they want to respond to a question or comment before replying and are likelier to be quiet and contemplative in group settings. If you often <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-think-before-you-speak' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-think-before-you-speak","linkCopy":"think before you speak","category":null}'>think before you speak</a>, you might be introverted. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. You value unique experiences. A personality assessment might classify you as an introvert if you prefer special activities specific to your interests that command your emotional and intellectual attention. </li></ol>

4 Signs of Introversion

Being an introvert can have advantages. Consider the following attributes and benefits of this personality trait:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Attention to detail: Introverts often care about details others might forget or overlook. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Good listening skills: Introverts tend to think before they speak, which means they can be more thoughtful, wise, and considerate. Introverted people are often <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effective-listening' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/effective-listening","linkCopy":"effective listeners","category":null}'>effective listeners</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Positive well-being: Engaging in alone time can boost <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem","linkCopy":"self-esteem","category":null}'>self-esteem</a> and improve <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health","linkCopy":"mental health","category":null}'>mental health</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Strong sense of self: Introverts prefer to spend time with themselves, which gives them more opportunities to reflect on who they are and what they want. Introverts have a strong sense of self. There is a misconception that introverts have a narrow view of the outer world, but introspection can give them a broad perspective. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Quality friendships: Introverts prefer a smaller social group, which means they are more selective about <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/value-of-friendship' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/value-of-friendship","linkCopy":"friendships","category":null}'>friendships</a> and how they spend their time socializing. Introverts tend to have close friends. </li></ol>

5 Benefits of Being an Introvert

Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.

You’re Worth It

In social psychology, <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"introversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>introversion</a> is a personality quality describing people who recharge by spending time with themselves. Learn about the benefits of quality alone time and the signs of introversion.

In social psychology, <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/what-is-an-introvert","linkCopy":"introversion","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>introversion</a> is a personality quality describing people who recharge by spending time with themselves. Learn about the benefits of quality alone time and the signs of introversion.