I’m reading an interesting book called The Introvert Advantage: How to Survive in an Extrovert World, by Marti Olsen Laney, Psy.D.
In the book, Marti discusses how introverts can thrive in a world filled with extroverts, she discusses where introverts and extroverts get their energy sources, and she uncovers the personality characteristics of introverts vs. extroverts.
As a studlete, it’s important to understand yourself. You should understand if you’re a morning person vs. being a night owl. Understand if you’re an auditory vs. a visual learner. Understand the subjects you’re strong at vs. those you struggle in.
As a leader, if you don’t have a complete understanding of what makes you energized, tick, or excel, it’s going to be hard to get the most out of those you wish to lead.
I feel that understanding whether or not you’re introverted or extroverted is crucial in getting a complete understanding of oneself.
Below is a introvert personality test that was created by author Marti Olsen Laney.
Simply answer true or false to the following questions about introverts’ personality characteristics. At the end, count how many questions you responded ‘true’ to and see where you fall: Introvert. Extrovert. or somewhere in between!
1. I like to have long, uninterrupted periods to work on projects, rather than small chunks.
2. I sometimes rehearse things before speaking, occasionally writing notes to myself.
3. I like to listen more than talk.
4. People sometimes think I’m quiet, mysterious, aloof or calm.
5. I usually need to think before I respond or speak.
6. I like to share special occasions with just one or two people, rather than have a big celebration.
7. I tend to notice details many people don’t see.
8. If two people have just had an argument, I feel the tension in the air.
9. If I say I’ll do something, I almost always do it.
10. I feel anxious if I have a deadline or pressure.
11. I can zone out if too much is going on.
12. I like to watch an activity for awhile before joining in.
13. I form lasting relationships.
14. I don’t like to interrupt others; I don’t like to be interrupted.
15. When I take in lots of information, it takes me awhile to sort it out.
16. I don’t like overstimulating environments.
17. I sometimes have strong reactions to smells, tastes, foods, weather, and noise.
18. I am creative and/or imaginative.
19. I feel drained after social situations, even when I enjoy myself.
20. I prefer to be introduced rather than having to introduce others.
21. I often feel uncomfortable in new surroundings.
22. I can become grouchy if I’m around people or activities for too long.
23. I often dread returning phone calls.
24. I like people to come to my home, but I don’t like them to stay a long time.
25. I find my mind sometimes goes blank when I meet people or when I am asked to speak unexpectedly.
26. I talk slowly or have gaps in my words, especially if I’m tired or if I’m trying to think and speak at once.
27. I don’t think of acquaintances as close friends.
28. I feel as if I can’t show other people my ideas until they’re fully formulated.
29. Other people may surprise me by thinking I’m smarter than I am.
How to score your results
20-29 “true” responses means you’re a true introvert
10-19 “true” responses means you’re somewhere in between
1-9 “true” responses means you’re an extrovert
To learn more about what your score means to you, click here.
If you’re wondering, I scored a 26. I’d say I’m pretty darn introverted.
