11 reasons to be proud of being an extrovert

Noisy. Hungry for attention. Chatters. Extroverts don’t always have the best reputation. Often seen as a “domineering” personality, they can appear to be tougher than their quieter counterparts. But just as introverts feel misunderstood, extroverts are also subject to incorrect stereotypes.

The truth is that there is a lot behind the extroverted personality, too chatty (oops) and the center of attention (extroverts are not always the life of the party). Below are some reasons to celebrate being an extrovert.

1. You are excited.

Chances are, you’ve never been to a party, concert, or social event that you didn’t enjoy. And it’s not just a lack of opinion or preference: research suggests that extroverts are hardwired for enthusiasm. It turns out that overall they associate pleasurable feelings with their current environment, according to a study of neurological differences between introverts and extroverts.

2. You are everyone’s friend.

Extroverts are by nature more friendly, which makes it easier to make friends. You probably talk to everyone at the party or introduce yourself to your new colleague on your first day at work. While this type of conversation can be difficult for some introverts, who hate small talk, this is just their way of trying to create a deeper connection.

3. You are very tuned in.

Is the project going well? Did you like work today? You will talk about these things. Being someone who naturally “interacts with people” it is possible that extroverts are able to notice more the small details. More good news? Research shows that extroversion and being on your toes can strengthen your immune system.

4. You are likely to be successful at work.

You’re not afraid to do what needs to be done at work or talk to the right people to achieve your goals. In fact, research suggests that most leaders identify with extroverts. You are in good company.

5. You are rarely bored.

Extroverts feed off the energy of other people and their environment. It is very likely that your weeknights and weekends are full of plans or activities that make you have that experience that immediately makes you euphoric. ‘Boredom’ is simply not part of their vocabulary.

6. Your behavior causes your happiness.

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that when people acted more extroverted they also reported being happier. The study also found that exhibiting more outgoing behavior can improve your sense of well-being. It’s not to say that extroverts are happier than introverts, but maybe there’s a connection between being more sociable and positivity.

7. You share how you feel.

Extroverts are known for speaking their minds. This means that you reveal your feelings instead of keeping them well hidden (which is not exactly a very healthy habit, let’s face it). Clear your mind, get rid of stress.

8. You are “cupid friend.”

Chances are, you have a lot of friends in different groups – and nothing makes your friends happier than when you get them all together. How extroverts replenish their energy by socializing is hardly surprising. The bigger the group, the happier you will be.

9. You are genuinely curious about the world and people.

They say curiosity killed the cat, but that’s no problem for the extrovert. Nothing is out of reach for you trying to get to know a new place or make a new friend. You have an insatiable appetite for knowledge and will ask many questions to get where you want to go.

10. You can handle difficult social situations.

A room full of strangers doesn’t intimidate an extrovert. Because of your open and warm nature, you are probably very good at networking events or parties, turning an awkward social event into something more enjoyable.

11. And in the end, you can’t help being like that.

Research has consistently suggested that some human behaviors are neurologically programmed – and extroversion is no exception. It makes no sense to fight biology. It’s better to accept it.

Have fun, extrovert!

This article was originally published in Brasil Post.