Do you much prefer listening to others than entertaining them? Do you feel much more comfortable in small groups than in large groups? Do you like to concentrate on one thing at a time? Then you are probably an introvert - and therefore in good company. Angela Merkel, Joachim Gauck, Günther Jauch - they are all considered reserved, quiet personalities.
A question of genes
Everyone has introverted and extroverted traits. Whether we lean more in one direction or the other depends on our genes, but also on the social environment in which we grew up. Outwardly, introverts tend to be quiet, reserved and often appear to be lost in thought. Extroverts, on the other hand, like to be in the limelight.
Shy my ass
Of course, everyone has an individual character. However, there are some characteristics that many introverts have in common. For example, they feel exhausted by their fellow human beings more quickly and need space for themselves after spending time in company in order to recharge their batteries. In general, they enjoy being alone, have a small circle of friends, think a lot and tend to be quiet observers rather than entertainers in conversations, especially as they generally don't enjoy small talk. However, this does not necessarily mean that all introverts are unsociable or shy. Shyness has to do with fear of rejection, and extroverts also struggle with this.
Many great qualities
Introverts are good at empathizing with others and are very loyal. They are also very self-reflective and often feel the urge to further their education. At work, they often score highly for their inventiveness and organizational skills.
Often underestimated
In our loud and hectic society, many people think that you have to push yourself to the center of attention to get anywhere. The potential of quiet people is therefore often underestimated. Yet introverts have numerous qualities with which they can score points. Without their empathy, their creative nature and their inner calm, our loud world would be pretty cold and gray.
What particularly characterizes introverts
They are reliable
Introverts value punctuality and accuracy. They also keep their promises.
They question many things
They don't just accept information, but analyze it carefully.
They are understanding
They can listen very well, are compassionate and reflect a lot.
They are modest
Introverts do not like to be the center of attention and do not tend to exaggerate.
They are creative
When they are alone, they can make full use of this strength. Many artists are introverts.
They are good planners
In their job and everyday life, they are often organizational talents.
They are patient
They devote much more time to problems and thus find solutions.
They are precise
They don't do things by halves. They work with concentration and want to deliver the best results.
They are open to ideas
... and listen carefully to suggestions from others.