I find the binary choices (in say the MBTI) to be a bit limiting and simplifying, so I’ve devised a slightly more descriptive schema, describing not only how you interact with others, but also your motivations in this area-overall desire for said interactions. This is a four-point survey, so bear with me.
On the first axis (signifier), we are measuring how you come across to and interact with others-do you tend to be assertive and forthright with everything out in the open, or do you tend to hold back, acting in a reserved manner. On the 2nd axis, we are measuring what you really want from interactions with other people-do you crave attention, human interaction, and companionship to a very large degree, or are you perfectly happy being by yourself most of the time. So here we go:
Extroverted Extrovert: You not only are completely open and outgoing with other people, but you also are almost constantly seeking interpersonal interactions whenever possible. What most people think of when using the word extrovert.
Introverted Extrovert: Here’s where the nuance comes into play. You could probably be described as “shy”, but despite that (or perhaps because of it) you secretly wish you were one of those “life of the party” types. You often go to many social engagements (or wish you did go to more than you do), but usually let someone else lead the proceedings while you hang back and just “peoplewatch” or such.
Extroverted Introvert: The exact opposite of the preceding. You have no qualms about engaging other people when necessary, being as bold and as forthright as you need to be, but have no inherent desire to be a social butterfly and are perfectly happy being alone most of the time. For example you’d have a fine and engaging conversation with a seatmate aboard an airliner, or crack a few jokes to the checkout girl, but don’t as a rule seek out such interactions.
Introverted Introvert: You can probably guess this one by now: not only are you a bit shy with other people, you also aren’t much interested in seeking out now parties and new civilizations, and can have a perfectly fine time entertaining yourself.
Me, I am an EI: I was an II for most of my childhood, only coming out of my shell in my early 20’s. But even after that I still had little desire to socialize (always did my own thing then and now), so if you were to put percentages on me [optional], I’d say 70-30 on the first axis, but 15-85 on the second.
I’m just curious to see how it all falls in around here (with all the INTJ’s we have). I was about to post this last week, but then noticed someone had posted the “Are You Shy” poll, so I didn’t want to steal someone else’s thunder. As usual I provided a “bailout” option.
Poll is private so as to not skew the results away from the more “I” types here, tho of course you are free to give details about yourself in the body of the thread.
