Let’s Talk About the Ambivert: The Rare Introvert-Extrovert Mix
Quite often, you’ll hear someone describe themselves as either an introvert or an extrovert. Then they’ll share or exhibit qualities that match their description. But rarely do you hear someone describe themselves as an ambivert. That’s mostly because not many people are aware of what that is.
If that’s you, then keep reading. You’ll understand what an ambivert is and what traits they have. You never know; you just might realize that you’re an ambivert instead.
What is an Ambivert?
When it comes to introversion and extroversion, one can view the two as the two ends on a long line graph.
On one end, there is the introvert. The person who is more reserved, would choose staying in for the night instead of partying, and would much rather unwind at home after work. This person thrives on having alone time to recharge themselves.
On the other end is the extrovert. This person is likely to heavily socialize at a gathering, choose a huge party, and probably hangs out with coworkers for a quick drink at a bar after work. This person thrives on spending time with others to recharge.
A few people feel recharged by or drained from too much of both kinds of activities. That person is an ambivert.
Where do Ambiverts Fall in the Introverted-Extroverted Spectrum?
If someone were to survey 100 people to place themselves on the metaphorical line graph, very few, if any, would place themselves right at the very end of the graph. That’s because there are levels of introversion and extroversion.
Nearly everyone on that survey will place themselves on less spaced-out sections of the line graph, meaning they don’t feel like they’re 100% introverted or extroverted.
The reason for this is that everyone has numerous traits and experiences that contribute to their extroversion or introversion. In fact, Dr. Rene Mottus explains that for someone to fall 100% into one of the categories, it requires only one reason to differentiate one person from another.
But since there are so many reasons why a person will label themselves as an introvert or extrovert, it’s possible to categorize oneself as an ambivert. Their actions, traits, feelings, and more place them right near the middle of the metaphorical line graph.
The Lifestyle of an Ambivert
Ambiverts have the qualities of an introvert and an extrovert; they just have a great balance of managing their energy levels. For example, an ambivert enjoys having their alone time, deep diving into a thought-provoking conversation, a quiet space to catch up on a good book, and just enjoying the solitude of their home. All typical behaviors of an introvert.
But they’ll also enjoy hanging out with a few or many people, engaging in some small talk, getting hyped up with others at a sports party or bar, and bringing a lot of high energy to others. All typical behaviors of an extrovert.
One may not even recognize an ambivert at first glance. Because they balance the introverted-extroverted spectrum so well, they can somewhat blend in wherever they go.
Signs That Someone is an Ambivert
One can probably guess that someone is an ambivert by observing these character traits or actions:
• Conversation: Small talk wouldn’t bother an ambivert much. They’ll converse with a person even if it’s surface level. But if the conversation gets deep, they’ll reciprocate and be a good listener as well.
• Social interaction: At a gathering, they may be quick or frequent to interact with others for a good bit of time. And the entire time, they may seem to be enjoying themselves. However, it shouldn’t be surprising if they take a few minutes to spend by themselves.
• Life after work: If an ambivert is offered to go get drinks at the bar after work is over, maybe 50% of the time, they’ll say yes and be looking forward to it. The other 50% of the time, they’ll be looking forward to relaxing on the couch to watch TV for the evening alone.
• Group work: They may not have a strong preference for working alone or working in groups. Either option suits them just fine. And it can be seen in their work, behavior, or actions.
In a nutshell, if someone can’t really describe themselves as either an extrovert or an introvert, based on their personality, that makes them an ambivert. Being one has many benefits and a few drawbacks.
Pros of Being an Ambivert
Communication is probably the largest benefit of ambiversion. One of an introvert’s greatest strengths is their fantastic listening skills. An extrovert has great speaking skills. An ambivert has both, thus making them very effective communicators. A sales job would be great for an ambivert.
The ability to “read the room” is another excellent skill. In a small but crowded waiting area, there may be someone who’s talkative. One person will try to avoid interaction, and another may join in on the conversation. The ambivert will have good judgment as to whether to do one or the other based on the vibes.
People will absolutely love having an ambivert friend when times get rough. Their great communicative skills make for the perfect person to vent to. It’s a combo of having an empathetic set of ears with an intuitive suggestion for a solution. They basically help people feel validated and solve problems.
Cons of Being an Ambivert
Having the ability to match the energy of the environment is quite beneficial, but it can be tiring and seen as a weakness. It’ll take up a lot of their energy having to “switch up” based on who they’re around, especially if it’s frequently changing.
Making plans may not be smooth either. One day, the ambivert may feel introverted when asked about plans with others and decline. Then, when the time comes, they feel more extroverted and want to hang out with people. It’s not like joining into plans already set in motion is as simple as “hey, I changed my mind.”
The reverse is true as well. Plans that an ambivert makes when they’re feeling extroverted might get canceled when the day comes and they’re feeling introverted at that moment. Those changes of plans could very well inconvenience others.
There aren’t many other cons to being an ambivert though. By being in the middle of the introverted-extroverted spectrum, an ambivert will share bad traits found on both sides of the spectrum. However, they may not display them as strongly.
This con is more on the fun side: ambiverts pretty much have to spectate debates about introversion versus extroversion. They basically agree with everything said by everyone, and having an input is tough; just saying that they’re an ambivert likely will confuse people. So, they might as well just grab some popcorn and watch the debate unfold.
The “In the Middle” -vert; The Sweet Spot in the Middle
Everyone shares a trait that doesn’t align with their side of the spectrum. And while rare, some people have multiple traits of introversion and extroversion. Make it less rare by sharing with others the concept of ambiversion.