Introversion and high sensitivity often get lumped together. It’s estimated that 70% of HSPs are introverts (source), so I can see how it is easy to get them confused. If you aren’t sure of the difference, hopefully this post will help make things a bit clearer.
Introversion in a nutshell
Introversion is all about energy. When introverts are around people, they expend energy. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain energy from being around people. That doesn’t mean introverts dislike social settings–just that it takes energy from them, and they will likely need to limit their social time or seek recuperation later on.
HSP in a nutshell
High sensitivity means you are more sensitive to the world around you–emotions as well as physical surroundings. You can see how this is not the same as gaining/losing energy in social settings, which is what introversion is about.
Common Myths about Introverts and HSPs
Myth: They are shy and socially awkward.
Myth: They want to stay inside all day and not talk to people.
Myth: They dislike public speaking.
Truth: While these things are sometimes true, they are not indicative of introverts or HSPs. The first two sound more like social anxiety. The last one–being a bad public speaker–has nothing to do with either.
Quiz Time
Which of the following sounds like HSP vs. introversion?
1. There is a humming background noise in my office that drives me bonkers!
2. I saw a homeless person yesterday and haven’t been able to stop thinking about them.
3. I have been at this party for hours; I feel worn out and want to go home!
4. I don’t like people!
Answers:
1. HSP 2. HSP 3. Introversion
4. Neither–trick question! This sounds more like social anxiety…or something else.
So there you have it–a very basic (and some might say, oversimplified) description of the difference between HSP and introversion.
Looks like I’m an introverted HSP with social anxiety..
Go me!
You are not the only one Penquin ;). I just like myself more than I like other people…that is why I rather spend time with myself than with others :). More arrogance than anxiety…
lol same
I consider myself a friendly introvert. According to this, though, I’m also a HSP. Not so much social anxiety. I prefer small gatherings with intimate conversation, to large gatherings with lots of noise. I spend a lot of time alone, or sitting quietly with my fiancee. And sometimes we’re very silly. The end.
Amen! You must be my overseas twin 😀
I’m sharing this with my husband. He thinks he’s an introvert. I see other evidence. 😉
When somebody asks you 1.WHY ARE YOU SO QUIET? 2.ARE YOU NORMAL? What could these questions be signalling? What are the exact features of introversion….
When I was younger I was definitely shy but I came out of it in my late teens and/or early 20’s. I teach fitness, Pilates and many other genres of exercise and, therefore, must do so in public gyms where I don’t know many people. This was very difficult but once I got through each class the first time, the next became easier. I now teach from my home and am extremely comfortable but I am definitely not ‘shy’ anymore. I always felt like something was different about me and used to question why I was soooo sensitive about other people or would cry at stupid things like seeing a homeless person whereas most people could just walk on by. I cannot take bright lights, need the house to be a certain level of noise and when it’s not, I get an extreme headache, I get soooo startled when someone simply comes in the room, etc. when I discovered this at first I wasn’t sure if I felt complete relief or if that made me even more of a freak (in my own mind). I have several friends, run a successful home business (actually 2), have 3 of my own children, 5 step children and 3 grandchildren and thrive in my life. People come to me because I am sensitive and can help them, empathize with them, nurture them and in my business encourage and motivate and ALL of this because I am extremely aware of their feelings. Do I at times feel like I’m different? Yes, all the time but I have to remind myself that I have so many great qualities that people turn to and/or are attracted to that I try desperately to remember them when I start to feel like this world is caving in. When I’m literally balling at a movie and others and looking at me like I’m insane, I feel so embarrassed but it’s because I feel like I AM the character in the movie. It’s so bizarre. Anyway, I have a son who is turning 21 in 4 weeks and he has felt suicidal, depressed etc and doesn’t think anyone understands him. He is brilliant. He graduated high school a year early and went into neuroscience as a major at 17. He left college because he wanted to pursue music or philosophy but his father (my ex) wouldn’t pay for it. He is definitely an HSP. I can only pray that he realizes he is not alone. I also pray he (and anyone reading this) realizes this also that he can take control of his life without worrying what others think and pursue his dreams whether or not someone believes in them. If THEY (you) believe you want something out of life, do it! Follow your heart and don’t let others intimidate you. At 47, it’s easy for me to give this advice and I SO WISH someone had told me to be myself and let my uniqueness shine because maybe it wouldn’t have taken me so long to feel ‘normal’. I could go on and on but I am extremely grateful to know that there are others just like me and I have an ‘explanation’ as to why I feel the way I do. I wish I could share it with everyone but then I feel like they would get scared and run lol. I’m very grateful for these sites so thank you and keep sharing! One day the world will see we are special and not odd. I’ve read so many comments on HSP sites where people think we are weak and aren’t needed in this world and that makes me so sad. They just don’t get it. Keep sharing xo