Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: EHARMONY
It takes all kinds to make a world.

Sometimes people butt heads on the daily, and it may seem like such clashing personalities were not meant to get along. In reality, while they might not be the best of friends, all personality types play an equally important role. Each one is valuable and crucial in a properly and smoothly functioning society.

Introverts and extroverts function differently, yet they complement each other, allowing each other to excel in areas of strength and gain support in areas of weakness. The two balance each other, for too many extroverts together could result in an abundance of energy and outgoing personalities needing to be heard, and a group of introverts could lack a hard driving force or the spontaneity of their counterparts.

It is very much the best of both worlds and knowing what you are can reveal a lot about how you think, act and process information. Things you never really thought about will become apparent and give you insight on the reasoning behind how people function and interact with each other. Extroverts tend to get their energy from being actively involved and from people around them. Problem-solving involves being vocal and demonstrates their outgoing personality. In opposition, introverts are internally motivated and are comfortable dealing with ideas and problems in their head. They spend time reflecting and thinking about things before speaking. When together, one compensates for the other, each bringing different strengths to the table.

Being an introvert myself, I understand the frustrations imposed by being an introvert. I know that my energy levels need replenishing quite frequently after any social interaction. I may seem more quiet when in reality, I think and process information to myself. It is frustrating being labelled and judged on such black and white categories.

Despite how well you may identify with your given characteristics, most people do not lean strictly to one end of the spectrum. Even though the qualities of an introvert do depict my personality traits in general, I am not an extreme introvert. The two types are not cardinal rules set in stone for everyone to follow; it is completely normal to stray outside the lines. Do you know your type? Try taking the Myers Briggs personality test (available online at tinyurl.com/myersbriggstest14) and see how well your results match your personality; it may just clarify a lot behind your normal tendencies.

I am proud to be an introvert, but simultaneously I do not let the predetermined traits confine or define who I am. Knowing what you are helps you understand how you tick. I have learned a lot about how people behave with each other, observing that opposites really do complement each other. It is even more apparent to me now that we need our differences to balance each other.

Push the boundaries; see how far you can test your limits. You will not change and grow if you stay within your comfort zone.