A textbook definition of an ambivert is someone who exhibits both introversion and extroversion qualities. So generally, it’s difficult labeling them as any of these. Introversion and extroversion are two opposites of a spectrum. With ambiversion falling right in the middle.
Another term used is Omniverts. Although it’s not a commonly used phrase, Ambiverts and Omniverts mean can mean the same thing. Ambiverts are more of middle grounds. Omniverts can be extremes of either. But at different times.
Their switch can be due to their environment, mood, people around, etc. they are also very good at mirroring people. So, with an introvert, they may come off more introverted. With an extrovert, however, they may come off more extroverted.
What Are Ambiverts Made Up Of?
People generally think you have to be an introvert or an extrovert. It is quite common for people to feel you absolutely have to be one of the two. And never both or anything in between.
But if you’ve studied people before, you’d notice that some don’t fall exactly under any of these. They Posses but introverted and extroverted qualities. As confusing as it might seem, they possess traits of an Ambivert.
Some key traits of the Ambivert are:
- They enjoy talking, discussion with people but can’t do so for too long. They are aware of their limit and act accordingly.
- Parties aren’t a challenge for them as they enjoy it. But again, have a limit to what they can take and when.
- Just as much as they enjoy parties, they enjoy their solitude and limit their interactions with other people. They may not be the front liners for a party always but would love to attend. However, they would need an alone time to recharge.
- They do not mind parties, big events and are jovial and flexible. This makes them easily mistaken for an extrovert. But would want to be alone afterwards.
Perks of Being an Ambivert
Being an Ambivert undeniably comes with its own perks. Some of these include:
Dependability
Ambiverts are very stable in nature because of their understanding of balance. They know what to do and when to do it. Without letting any side of them control the outcome.
Ambiverts are usually a great go-to for anything because they relate to both sides. They aren’t overly sensitive like the introvert nor domineering like the extrovert.
Although introverts are classified as being shy (which isn’t always the case as extroverts can be shy) an Ambivert is none of this. People who need balance opt for an Ambivert.
Versatility
Considering they are great at adjusting personalities to fit the occasion. This makes them very flexible. Easy to adapt in any place they are put in and that could be a superpower.
Introverts find certain situations uncomfortable and opt-out from them if they had the chance. They avoid social gatherings and noises. Extroverts on the other hand do not appreciate “boring” ‘places.
Ambiverts would fit into any of these situations perfectly and adapt as needed. And when they are done, they can just be the opposite.
Clairvoyance
Ambiverts are clairvoyant and know when to do one thing or another. They sense their environment and this aids them with things they should be doing or not be doing.
Ambiverts know the right time to speak and the right time to shut up. They are also very practical in making their choices. Their sensory contact is great at perceiving things most people would miss.
Ambiverts make good colleagues and sales representatives because they can adapt to their clients. They know what the clients want to hear and say.
Great Listeners
Ambiverts are comfortable listening just like introverts and talking just like extroverts. They can make great talkers and amazing listeners. With them, you can say what’s on your mind.
They find it very easy to express themselves as well. Considering they are comfortable doing so. This makes their conversations a lot more meaningful.
Introverts might find it very difficult to express themselves sometimes. And not all extroverts tend to make good listeners. So, it’s the best of both worlds.
Great with People
Ambiverts are great at getting along with people. Considering they mirror people in front of them, they get to be more comfortable than not. Introverts tend to bore extroverts. Extroverts can be exhausting to introverts.
People who are extreme introverts might find it difficult to get along with other people. The same thing goes for extroverts. But that’s not the case here.
Both introverts and extroverts can get along with Ambiverts just fine in most cases. This can build trust in conversation. They are generally easy to talk to and be around.
Challenges of an Ambivert
Ambiverts face their own version of challenges just like other personality traits. Some include:
They Can Be Hard To Read
Due to their flexibility, they can be hard to read. The Ambivert is someone who can fit into any situation. Therefore, it’s hard to tell what’s next with them.
A lot of people find this very challenging and might not want to interact with one. They are usually also seen as imposters by both introverts and extroverts.
It Can Be Draining
Always having to maintain a balance between being an introvert or extrovert, it can be draining. Sometimes they are heavily classified as one or the other.
But it is usually best to classify them as what they are. Ambiverts. Some lean more into introversion while others into extroversion. But this doesn’t make them one of either. It just solidifies the fact that they are flexible.
12 Signs You Are an Ambivert
Here are 12 undeniable signs you are more of an Ambivert than not.
- You don’t mind just sitting and observing people. Don’t necessarily have to be the center of attention.
- You like you alone time and you need it to recharge from frequent interactions and social situations.
- You enjoy parties and social situations and actively participate. However, once it’s all over you just want to go home and be in your own space.
- You have moments where you are reserved. Even when you enjoy talking to people, you’ll keep more to yourself sometimes. You have a different side in front of different people.
- When it comes to conversations, you prefer meaningful conversations than otherwise. So, you despise small talks just like introverts. But you do it if you must.
- You feel you’re neither an extrovert nor an introvert. However, you feel like you are both. Just at different times and that’s why you relate to both.
- Just like introverts you like your alone time. But just like extroverts you need to be around people sometimes in other to function.
- Your conform zones comes with limits. You don’t mind socializing but there are limits to how far you’ll go.
- People tend to mistake you for an extrovert or an introvert sometimes. This can be confusing sometimes for them and even you.
- You tend to think before you speak. Something that’s generally associated with introverts. But in most cases, you want to hear what the other person has to say.
- You feel a lot more comfortable having your friends around you. It makes you a lot more social and you wouldn’t have it any other way. Being more extroverted around strangers is uncommon.
- You reflect the people around you. It all depends on if the situation requires you to be more of a talker or a listener.
So, Who Exactly Is an Ambivert?
So many theories of Ambivert suggest they are with highly sensitive extroverts or not. But introversion and extroversion are two opposite ends of a spectrum. This means so many people fall right in the middle.
There are cases of people taking personality tests where it comes out as both extroverted and introverted. This doesn’t mean they are poses. Engaging in conversations with these people has made me realize they are just the right balance.
Sometimes being extremely introverted and extroverted can be challenging. With ambiversion, a lot of these challenges are eliminated.
Best Careers for Ambiverts
Due to their adaptable and flexible nature, Ambiverts are more suitable for certain jobs and careers. Some of these careers include;
- Sales representatives
- Management
- Therapists
- Psychologists
- Mediation and negotiations.
