How to Thrive as an Extrovert
There are 7.6 billion humans on Earth.
Each individual is one of a kind. Every person has a unique genetic recipe that forms the basic structure of who he or she is.
In addition to how you're made, many things — like your family, your environment, your culture and your circumstances — can shape who you become.
At Cru, we believe God has created and knows each of us. He has a plan for your life. Knowing how you are made and why you are here is a part of living out your purpose.
There is not another person exactly like you. You have a place in this world no one else has.
A simple and useful way to think about yourself is through a personality type. Your personality can be described as a combination of many different traits.
To help make sense of the world and your special place in it, you can sort yourself and others into specific types. These types tell you what you have in common with some people and how you’re different than others. Types also help you understand your strengths and the things you find challenging.
A basic way of sorting personality traits is by whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert.
There are more extroverts in the world than introverts. Extroverts like to communicate by talking and like to work in groups. They’re comfortable with making quick decisions. They’re friendly, approachable and easy to get to know.
Extroverts feel energized by socializing. When they’re feeling restless or uninspired, they want to spend time with others. Being alone drains them of energy.
The world needs a lot of extroverts. Their social energy means they’re great at building networks and staying connected to the people in them. Extraversion is like a social glue that all societies depend on to get things done.
Extroverts have many traits that make it easy to form and maintain relationships. They’re also action-oriented and naturally optimistic. Qualities like this are why extroverts often make great leaders.
Extroverts who enjoy taking the lead can potentially impact a lot of people. If that’s not their thing, their talent for teamwork is vital in the workplace, home and community. Either way, an extrovert is a people person!
To use one’s gifts well, it’s important to keep growing. Positive change happens when you’re aware of areas where you’re not as strong or you have challenges. For extroverts, those areas can be about:
- Listening to others who may be less confident or not very talkative.
- Taking in enough information to make important decisions.
- Slowing down and practicing deep focus.
- Finding time to be alone, reflect and recharge.
If you’re not sure what your specific challenges are, try asking someone you trust for honest feedback. Identify one specific area to work on and set a manageable goal.
Take a step.- The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a common way to look at where you fall on the extraversion scale. It also tells you about other aspects of your personality. If you’re curious about your type, you can take a free test to find out what it is.
- Read about six personality traits that God has or how your personality connects you with God.
- Try reflecting on some of life’s big questions.
