As an introvert, I can attest to the fact that extroverts in my life come in handy at times. They are the life of the party and always seem to know how to have a good time. They also know how to get me out of my shell when I need it.
But, there are also times when their outgoing nature can be overwhelming. It can be hard to keep up with their social butterfly ways and they may not understand why you need some time to yourself.
So, should an introvert date extrovert?
Generally, I believe the answer is yes. Like I said, extroverts have added to my life… however, for a relationship to work between the two personalities, there are factors to consider. Let's look at why our different personalities may be attracted to each other and how to make this type of relationship work despite the odds.
What Is an Introvert?
An introvert is someone who prefers to spend time alone or in small groups of people. They are often seen as quiet or shy. Common introvert job fields include art, writing, and engineering.
Bookstores and coffee shops may often serve as a replacement for a night out clubbing or socializing for an introvert.
What Is an Extrovert?
An extrovert is the opposite of an introvert. They prefer to spend time around large groups of people and are energized by social interactions.
They are often seen as the life of the party and enjoy being in the spotlight. You will often see extroverts in career fields like politics, sales, and teaching. If you are at the beach, they are usually the ones leading the volleyball game or talking to everyone around them.
Why Would an Introvert Date an Extrovert?
There are a few reasons why an introvert would be attracted to an extrovert. So let’s start by talking about that.
Introverts are attracted to extroverts because they are outgoing. They enjoy being around people and their energy is infectious. This can be a great change of pace for an introvert who is used to being alone.
Dating someone who is outgoing may help you increase your social circle with more ease, since they are already comfortable in social situations. They may also help you come out of your shell more and try new things that you would not have otherwise attempted, like surfing, swimming in the ocean, or going to a crowded bar.
Extroverts are not afraid of being in the spotlight, so they may enjoy being the center of attention. This can be a turn on for introverts who are used to being in the background.
It can also be a refreshing change of pace to date someone who is confident enough to receive praise and not afraid to show it. This type of personality can help you feel more secure in yourself and your relationship.
Even if you eventually break up, being around someone who enjoys the spotlight may help an introvert allow the light to shine on them sometimes.
While it is great to plan things out, some spontaneity makes life more exciting. Here is where extroverts excel! Extroverts enjoy trying new things and going on adventures. For the typical introvert who likes to plan everything out and sometimes overthink, it can be a relief.
Let's face it, when it is time to try skydiving, scuba diving, or dancing on the bar during a boozy brunch, it will be the extroverted member of the couple who will lead the way.
As an introvert, I can attest to the fact that the problem does not lie in us not wanting to do wild and crazy things. In some instances, we may simply need that initial push or a naughty partner in crime to get us going. This can be exciting for an introvert who may want to try new things but is hesitant to do so.
Extroverts are passionate people and this can be seen in their hobbies, careers, and social interactions. This trait is often attractive to introverts, who may appreciate the passion that an extrovert brings to the relationship.
Passion can be a great thing in a relationship as it may help keep the spark alive. It can also help balance out an introvert's more reserved personality and bring out the introvert's own hidden passion.
Lastly, extroverts are often confident. They are not afraid to put themselves out there and they know how to take charge. This can be attractive to an introvert who is more shy and reserved.
Why Would An Extrovert Be Attracted To An Introvert?
Now that we have covered some of the reasons why an introvert may be attracted to an extrovert, let's switch gears and look at why an extrovert would be attracted to an introvert.
One of the things that may attract an extrovert to an introvert is the fact that introverts are great listeners. They are not afraid to sit back and listen to what someone has to say. An extrovert who is used to being the one doing all the talking may need that sounding board.
Extroverts may also have other extrovert friends, so dating an introvert may be the perfect slice of peace to come home to.
It can also be beneficial in a relationship as it allows both partners to share their thoughts and feelings more easily. As an introvert, I know that I appreciate being able to share my thoughts and feelings without having to worry about being interrupted or not being heard.
Another reason why an extrovert may be attracted to an introvert is that introverts are often thoughtful. They take the time to think about things before they speak or act. This can be a refreshing change of pace for an extrovert who is used to acting on impulse.
It can also be helpful in a relationship as it allows both partners to think about what they want to say or do before they do it. This can help prevent arguments or hurt feelings.
Lastly, introverts are often low-maintenance. They do not need to be constantly entertained or surrounded by people to be happy. Many introverts like me are skilled at entertaining ourselves with a book, movie, or our own thoughts. This can be a relief for an extrovert who is used to being the life of the party.
For extroverts that sometimes just want to hang with their friends, they won't have a problem with the introvert partner letting them go out on their own without a fight.
It can also be helpful in a relationship as it allows both partners to have some time to themselves without feeling guilty. As an introvert, I know that I appreciate having some time for myself to recharge after being around people for too long.
What Are the Benefits of Dating an Extrovert?
Dating an extrovert can have its benefits. As we have seen, extroverts are passionate, confident, and outgoing. They are also great listeners and are thoughtful. Here are some more benefits of dating an extrovert.
One of the great things about dating an extrovert is that they are often open-minded. They are willing to try new things and are not afraid of change. This can be helpful in a relationship as it allows both partners to experience new things together.
Another benefit of dating an extrovert is that they are often good at communicating. They are not afraid to express their thoughts and feelings. This can be helpful in a relationship as it allows both partners to communicate more easily.
It can also be helpful in a relationship as it allows for more open communication. As an introvert, I know that I appreciate being able to share my thoughts and feelings without feeling like I am being judged.
Dating an extrovert is usually pretty fun. From cracking jokes, inviting others in, getting on the dance floor, etc.… they are often the life of the party. This can be helpful in a relationship as it can keep things interesting.
Why Both Personalities Should be a bit Cautious
While extroverts and introverts may fill certain voids in the other person's life, it is imperative to be cautious in these types of relationships. Just as there are benefits of dating an extrovert, there are also challenges that come with it. Namely, they have different “comfort zones”.
Extroverts are often more comfortable in social situations, while introverts are often more comfortable in quieter, low-key situations. This can be a challenge in a relationship as it can lead to conflict. It is important to be aware of this challenge and to be willing to compromise.
For example, an extrovert may need to be willing to spend more time at home to accommodate their introverted partner's need for quiet. Similarly, an introvert may need to be willing to go out more often to accommodate their extroverted partner's need for social interaction.
7 Tips for Making Introvert Dating Extrovert Work
Now that we have covered some of the reasons why an introvert may want to date an extrovert, as well as some of the challenges that come with it, here are seven tips for making it work.
Tip #1: Communicate
One of the most important things in any relationship is mindful communication. This is especially true for introverts and extroverts. Because they have different “comfort zones,” it is important to communicate about what each person is comfortable with.
Tip #2: Be Willing to Compromise
As we mentioned before, it is important to be willing to compromise in a relationship between an introvert and an extrovert.
This means that both partners need to be flexible and willing to try new things. The relationship won't last if only one partner's needs and personality type is satisfied.
Tip #3: Don't Be Afraid to Be Yourself
It is important to be true to yourself in any relationship. This is especially important for introverts. They should not feel like they have to change who they are to please their partner.
While it is fun to come out of your shell, you should not feel the need the suddenly become some wild party girl or go bungee jumping every weekend if that does not fit who you are.
Tip #4: Give Each Other Space
An introvert-extrovert relationship may need more space than other types of couples. This means that each person should have time to be alone and to do things that they enjoy. As long as you balance time apart with compromise, you can keep the home fires burning.
Tip #5: Plan Time Together
It is important to plan time together in an introvert-extrovert relationship. This means that each person should make an effort to find activities that both partners will enjoy.
This can be anything from going to a movie to taking a walk in the park. It is important to have time together, but it is also important to have time apart.
Tip #6: Don't Take It Personally
If your partner needs some time alone, don't take it personally. It is important to remember that introverts and extroverts have different comfort levels and that this does not reflect how they feel about you.
Tip #7: Seek Help If Needed
If you find that you are having difficulty making your relationship work, don't be afraid to seek help. There are many resources available to help couples with different personality types.
By following these tips, you can create a successful and happy relationship with someone who is the complete opposite of you. Just remember to communicate, be willing to compromise, and don't take things personally.
Final Thoughts on Introverts Dating Extroverts
While it may seem like dating an extrovert would be difficult for an introvert, there are many benefits to be had. The important thing is to embrace your differences and be mindful of the challenges it could present.
You must be willing and able to compromise in order to create a successful and happy relationship. There is no need to change each other, but rather find a way to bring out the best in one another. You’ll be fine as long as you remember to communicate, be true to yourself, and give each other space when needed.
With a little effort, you can make it work! You can learn more about the inner workings of introverts by reading this article on Famous Introverts: 27 Successful People Who Are Also Introverted. And be sure to leave your comments below!
Finally, if you want to identify YOUR personality type, then take one of these 11 personality tests to better understand what makes you tick.
