If you took an online personality quiz before and after the pandemic, what would have changed?
Maybe it would reveal you’re less E and more I, or just more of the same. But I’m willing to bet the results would look at least somewhat different.
Rise of the ambivert
We’ve been trapped inside, forced to adapt to new ways of living and thinking. Everyone had to tune into their introverted sides at least a little bit.
Carl Jung first introduced extroversion and introversion in the 1920s. He claimed we all fall somewhere along the spectrum, with ambiverts sitting smack dab in the middle.
Hans Eysenck built on this theory by suggesting that personality types are linked to how we gain and recharge our mental energy. Extroverts find excitement from talking to strangers, whereas introverts enjoy spending time in their own heads.
That doesn’t mean they’re shy; they’re just used to digesting complex thoughts alone. On the other hand, extroverts often pull from short-term memory to develop rapid associations. It helps them look smart and quick-witted, even if they haven’t thoroughly analyzed what they’re talking about.
Subject to change
Previous research suggested that our traits stabilize after 30. New studies debunk this belief.
Personalities are like flavor palettes, not tombstones.
They’re dynamic and complex, shaped by new experiences and perspectives. And the reality is that most of us are inching closer to the center. This is a good thing, it offers balance and stability.
The best of both worlds
All of us represent a unique blend of different colors. As leaders, we can be the brush that paints a better picture when we’re inclusive and mindful about our differences.
Give everyone time to think. Teachers often have students write down their thoughts before speaking. This helps give introverts the chance to reflect while forcing extroverts to dig deeper before blurting out an answer.
Be aware of differences in how we handle mental health and relationships. Introverts may need to carve out more alone time before engaging a crowd. On the other hand, extroverts often thrive in group settings and crave social interaction.
Avoid making snap judgments. A new study found that people look more alike if we think they have similar personalities. It’s important to realize that we’re prone to conflating identities with appearance.
Behind every personality is a person.
Wood For The Fire, W(F)TF
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Quote of the Week:
“When you’re actually trying to live your life in congruence with reality, you want a deep understanding of what you do and why you do it. So, it’s much more important to know the basics really well than to know the advanced.” - Naval Ravikant
Featured Builder:
Eric Jorgenson, the guy who created the Navalmanack. He talks about personal leverage, wealth, Web3, and sandwiches. We think it’s pretty amazing how he’s built an empire by reading and sharing knowledge, and are excited to see what he does next.