I have always thought of myself as an introvert. I love (need) my time alone. I am a homebody. This is my safe place. My hobbies, reading, crafting, being outdoors in nature and gardening are how I achieve peace by myself. I don’t like distractions. When I was on the beach or in the woods and even now being outside gardening I don’t want music or my phone. I can be in the moment and listen to the birds and take in what is around me. I am appreciative of that ability.
On the other hand I do like being social. I love gettogethers, listening and enjoying music with others, dinner with friends, and of course, just plain talking to people. That is why I have always loved working in retail and waitressing. I think of myself as outgoing and willing to try new things. , (jumping out of a plane yes, bungee jumping no).
Then again, there is also part of me that is insecure. I don’t do well in a situation where I feel out of place. I can feel intimidated and not good enough. This has lessened with age but I also have not been in situations like this. I used to work myself up and get filled with anxiety when going into social situations, even when I knew most of the people there. If I was to stop home before attending, that would be the end of it, I’d stay home feeling safe.
Anyway, I think that I am both, mostly introvert and I also like being out there in the world and experiencing new things. I hear talk of removing labels on people and this would be a good example, but then I do like being able to identify as a certain type of individual and know that I am not alone.