I agree that on the scale, I’m pretty sure I’m not at the far end of introversion. But, research has also found that extroverts often act introverted and introverts quite regularly act extroverted. Not all introverts are so extreme that they never engage in activity that might be considered extroverted.

I’m definitely the type to always seek out solitude when I get fatigued with social interaction, and engaging with others doesn’t come naturally to me at all. I don’t head for the nearest event, party, or club. I need my alone time, far away from all people.

I had to make a conscious effort to force myself to engage, be sociable, and speak in front of groups to advance my career (or so I thought). It still doesn’t come naturally to me, and it’s not what I want to do. Put me in a remote cabin in the woods, and I’m happy. I actually just moved to such a location about a year ago, after 20+ years in Silicon Valley.

I think the only person who really knows the introverted side of me is my wife. She knows how I force myself to engage. She knows the toll it takes.