Extrovert versus Introvert

Until recently, I had always thought of myself as an extrovert, someone who loves people and gets their energy from being around others. It was my husband, a true extrovert, that suggested to me that I probably lean towards being an introvert.

Arrghh, an introvert what do I do with that? Not sure why I felt the need to be anything but myself, or that being an introvert is a bad thing but I thought it carried negative connotations, that I was somehow selfish and inward focused.

I had obviously masked it so well, or so I thought, with a happy demeanor and a need to please, that I had actually fooled myself! After years of people pleasing and getting some of my self-esteem, and to some extent my identity, from the approval of others, I realised that I am actually my happiest when I honour who God made me to be; a possible introvert.

This does not mean that it is without its challenges, for with every strength there are sure to be weaknesses but I have come to realise that I would much prefer to listen than to talk, read or observe than participate, be in quiet small groups than loud, large crowds, and that this is more than ok! That I am at my best when I am comfortable in the casing God gave me. Probably explains why I married a man that is more than happy to do the talking for the both of us!