You May Be an Introvert if.....

These are the things the book lists as introvert characteristics. The more you check off, the more introverted you are.

When I need to rest, I prefer to spend time alone or with one or two close people rather than with a group

When I work on projects, I like to have larger uninterrupted time periods rather than smaller chunks

I sometimes rehearse things before speaking, occasionally writing notes for myself

In general, I like to listen more than I like to talk. (except when I'm nervous in a social situation, I talk so I don't feel the tension of silence.)

People sometimes think I'm quiet, mysterious, stand offish or calm

I like to share special occasions with just one person or a few close friends, rather than have big celebrations

I usually need to think before I respond or speak.

I tend to notice details many people don't see.

If two people have just had a fight, I feel the tension in the air. (I literally have my skin crawling if I sense tension between people)

If I say I will do something, I almost always do it.

I feel anxious if I have a deadline or pressure to finish a project. (Ironically, once I get working I feel I do my best work under pressure)

I can 'zone out' if too much is going on. (I will be looking right at you with glazed eyes, then have to ask you to repeat everything you just said)

I like to watch an activity for a while before I decide to join it.

I form lasting relationships. (a few close friends, rather than a lot.)

I don't like to interrupt others, I don't like to be interrupted. ( I interrupt people to make sure I'm seen or heard, fear of being invisible.)

When I take in lots of information, it takes me a while to sort it out.

I don't like overstimulating environments. I can't imagine why folks want to go to horror movies or go on roller coasters.

I sometimes have strong reactions to smells, tastes, foods, weather, noises, etc. (a lot of nostagia/memories lie here for me)

I am creative or imaginative.

I feel drained after social situations, even when I enjoy them. (I feel the need to talk a lot, to keep conversation going...most people see this as extroverted...more like nervous talking)

I prefer to be introduced rather than to introduce others. (my wedding speech...that was a total nightmare for me to stand in front)

I can become grouchy if I'm around people or activities too long.

I often feel uncomfortable in new surroundings. (more like a new job or meeting group of people...new places like vacation I'm fine with)

I like people to come to my home, but I don't like them to stay too long.

I often dread returning phone calls (yeah, this is completely me)

I find my mind sometimes goes blank when I meet people.or when I am asked to speak unexpectedly. (social anxiety)

I talk slowly or have gaps, especially if I'm trying to speak and think at once. (why I can't argue effectively)

I don't think of casual acquaintances as friends. (If I don't talk to you often, you probably fall into this category)

I feel as if I can't show other people my work or ideas until they are fully formulated.

Other people may surprise me by thinking I'm smarter than I think I am. (Rich constantly tells me I should write a cookbook..I'm not good at taking compliments.)