What is an Introvert?


What is an introvert?.....
And could you actually be an empath!


So, what is an introvert?

Being an introvert is actually a trait, as opposed to a mental health condition.

Introverts are typically reserved and quiet, and are more comfortable in small groups, or in their own company.

They can appear outwardly timid, and often find themselves shying away from many social situations.

Signs of being an introvert:

  • Need quiet to concentrate
  • Are reflective
  • Are self-aware
  • Take time making decisions
  • Feel comfortable being alone
  • Don't like group work
  • Prefer to write rather than talk
  • Feel tired and drained after being in a crowd
  • Have few friendships, but are very close with these friends
  • Daydream, or use their imaginations to work out a problem
  • Retreat into their own mind to rest


It is fascinating how these are also the same traits that most empaths possess, and if you see my page on social anxiety, you will notice that empaths also show most of these signs too.

It can be very daunting discovering that an empath can be characterised by what seem like such negative traits, but try not to feel overwhelmed.

If you haven't already done so, have a look at the signs of an empath.


Empath Introvert


We really can't help who we are. We just need to find ways to embrace it!


Introverts are often labelled as 'shy', 'anti-social', or 'awkward', and over time this can really effect our self-esteem.

You may find yourself struggling in a world that seems extroverted, as I often do, and I find myself feeling envious of those real outgoing, big personality people that just seem to attract everyone around them.

It's a bit of a contradiction really.... I want to be liked, and love the thought of others being drawn to me and enjoying my company... who doesn't love the thought of walking into a room and people automatically gravitating towards you... open arms, big smiles, and happy to see you.... BUT...

the other part of me wants to be unnoticed, no fuss and hide in a corner and avoid people at all costs!!

What's up with that?!?!

I think I just dream about fitting in and being ok in these social situations, but in reality it's not where I feel my most comfortable.


Happy Empath


The science bit

According to Wikipedia, (see Extraversion and introversion - Wikipedia)

One study found that introverts have more blood flow in the frontal lobes of their brain, and the anterior or frontal thalamus, which are areas dealing with internal processing, such as planning and problem solving.

Extraverts have more blood flow in the temporal lobes and posterior thalamus, which are involved in sensory and emotional experience.

This study and other research indicate that introversion-extraversion is related to individual differences in brain function.

A study on regional brain volume found a positive correlation between introversion and grey matter volume in the right prefrontal cortex and right temporoparietal junction, as well as a positive correlation between introversion and total white matter volume.


Introvert Brain Function


What does this mean?

It means that introverts and extroverts are wired differently, and therefore, this is not something we can control.

We have to accept that this is ok, and that this is who we are.

The thing is, who is to say that extroverts are happy being the way they are? we only perceive them to be loving life because this is how it appears to us on the surface, but everyone carries their own internal struggles, and we shouldn't compare ourselves to others.

I know that this is easier said than done, but if we want to heal, we need to just work on ourselves and not worry about how we appear to others.

We can become our own energy vampire and this is harmful to our own wellbeing.


With my help, you can find ways to change your mindset, avoid and protect yourself from negative energies, and feel more in control of your life, ultimately finding your inner peace and living a life of serenity.