The Introverted Trap (and how to avoid it)

I used to label myself as an introvert, but honestly… I'm not even sure if "being an introvert" is a real thing.

Many people define introversion as losing energy in social situations, in contrast to extroverts who supposedly gain energy from them.

But here’s where I see a problem with that definition: if introverts tend to shy away from social interaction, they end up not practicing it. And like with any skill, if you don’t practice, you get worse. The less you engage socially, the more unfamiliar it becomes—and the more mental energy it takes just to navigate those situations. That overload makes you retreat even more. It’s a reinforcing loop.

Now flip it: someone we’d call an extrovert might just be someone who has practiced a lot. They’ve become good at expressing themselves, so their ideas come across well. People respond positively, which reinforces their skills. Over time, every social interaction becomes smoother, more intuitive—and eventually, almost effortless. At that point, it doesn’t drain energy. It might even feel energizing.

Summary:

The problem is.. the less you socialize the less you are "trained" to the social environment.

You only know if you are an introvert if you CAN act extroverted.
Then being introverted is your active choice.