In this article, we are going to answer the question ‘Are extroverts and introverts compatible?’. We will initially describe extroverts and introverts. Next, we will discuss compatibility between them and signs of an extrovert-introvert relationship. Finally, we will discuss tips on how to make such a relationship work.
Are extroverts and introverts compatible?
Extroverts and introverts are compatible. Although, these people are opposite to each other in terms of how they gain energy and in their preference to spend their time. Yet, despite their differences, they make good partners for each other and have a balanced relationship provided that they work out their differences through clear communication.
Extroversion
Extroversion is a tendency to be externally oriented. These people are called extroverts. They gain energy by being around a lot of people and by participating in social events. Furthermore, they process things by sharing their thoughts and feelings with others. Being alone depletes their energy.
Introversion
Introversion is a tendency to be internally oriented. These people are called introverts. They gain energy by being alone and by participating in solitary activities. Furthermore, they process things by keeping their thoughts and feelings to themself in their minds. Being around a lot of people depletes their energy.
Compatibility of extroverts and introverts
Based on the description given above, it is apparent that extroverts and introverts are poles apart. This brings a question to the mind of whether these people are compatible with each other to be in a relationship.
Despite their differences, extroverts and introverts make great romantic partners. This can possibly be explained by the idea that opposites attract each other. Their opposing traits can balance each other out and create a relationship where both partners can learn from each other and grow in areas where they are lacking.
Extroverts can learn from introverts by getting in touch with their introspective side. They can try to process their emotions and thoughts internally and engage in self-reflection.
In contrast, introverts can learn from extroverts to be more social, be open to experiences, and take risks. With the help of extroverts, they can try being more talkative and be okay with the lighter and casual side of life.
However, it is easier said than done. Like all other relationships, extroverted and introverted partners would definitely have their share of problems. They would need to work it out through clear communication and expressing openly their needs and boundaries.
Signs of extrovert-introvert relationship
As extroverts and introverts are opposite, the nature of their romantic relationship is also different from other relationships where both partners share a similar orientation to the world. Below are stated a few signs or characteristics of how a romantic relationship between an extrovert and an introvert would look like:
Conflict Resolution style
Extroverted and introverted partners would differ in their preference to deal with a conflict. Usually, after an argument, the introverted partner would need time alone to think and process the proceedings of the disagreement. They would carefully analyze what exactly happened, what triggered it, the share of mistakes of each partner, and how to resolve it. This processing takes place in their mind. In contrast, the extroverted partner would prefer to do all this by talking it out with their partner immediately after the fight. They would want to resolve the disagreements through an open and expressive discussion.
Reliance on the spouse to rescue in group conversations
Introverts usually shy away from social events and from participating in group conversations. At a social gathering, they can usually be found sitting quietly or engaged in a deep conversation with one or two people. In contrast, an extrovert can be found at the center of the party among a crowd where everyone is talking.
When extroverted and introverted partners go to an event together and have to engage in a conversation/discussion happening among a crowd, the introverted partner may get uncomfortable. Usually, in such situations, he/she may rely on the extroverted partner to rescue him/her and carry the steer of the conversation with them.
Time of Leaving the Event
Extroverts and introverts differ in how quickly their social battery gets filled. Introverts get tired and drained after a short span of time from socializing. Whereas, extroverts get energy from socialization. Consequently, their preference about what time to leave a social event differs. Usually, both partners may come on separate rides so that the introverted partner can leave early and the extroverted partner can stay for some time longer.
Perception of Alone time
Extroverted and introverted partners may differ in how they view alone time. The introverted partner may see alone time as an opportunity to recharge and wind down. They may think of it as rejuvenating. In contrast, the extroverted partner may think of time alone as mind-numbing and may actually get drained instead.
Number of Friends
Both extroverts and introverts may differ in their number of friends. The extroverted partner will have a large group of friends, will be open to meeting new people and adding new social contacts to their already existing large social circle. In contrast, the introverted partner will have a few, close, and small group of friends.
Preference of how to spend time at the end of the day
The introverted partner would prefer to have peace and quiet at the end of a long day. In contrast, the extroverted partner would want to chat about what happened during their day.
Different ideas of a date
Extroverted and introverted partners will have different ideas of what a perfect date would look like. The introverted partner prefers to spend time at home with takeout and Netflix. Whereas, the extroverted partner would want to go out on a date at a new restaurant and do something exciting.
Nature of Activities
The introverted partner would prefer to engage in different activities compared to their extroverted partner. Their preference would be to activities that are homier in nature e.g. reading, baking, Netflix, painting, etc. In contrast, an extrovert would prefer to engage in outdoorsy activities that require social interaction e.g going to stand-up comedy shows.
One-sided conversation
At times, conversations between an extroverted and introverted partner can get one-sided where the introvert would usually be the listener in contrast to the extrovert who would be the talker.
Ways to make a relationship work
Following are a few ways by which extroverts and introverts can try to make their relationship work in spite of their differences.
Acknowledge each other’s differences
A lot of the time, at the beginning of a relationship between an extrovert and an introvert, both partners try to match each other and overcome their differences. This can harm their relationship. It is important that they acknowledge the differences that exist between them in the beginning and accept that both of them are unique individuals instead of pushing themself to be more like the other.
Encourage the introverted partner to open up
Usually, the introverted partner prefers to stay quiet and rarely talks about what they are thinking or feeling. This makes it difficult to get to know them. It is important that the extroverted partner understands this side of introverts and try to get to know them by initiating questions like ‘What are you thinking?’ ‘What are you feeling?’. Etc. on a regular basis.
Share your expectations from your partner
Another important thing is that both partners share their expectations from each other openly and clearly. For example, the introverted partner may express their need for having alone time and expect their partner to understand that instead of getting offended. Similarly, the extroverted partner may express their need to go out and socialize. Consequently, they may expect their partner to join them in going to social events even if it is for a little while.
Discuss your limits of socialization
Extroverted and introverted partners may need to reach a compromise about how much they will spend time socializing. Extroverted partners may prefer big doses unlike small doses for introverts. Both would need to adjust to each other’s social limits.
Don’t push your partner to change
Although it is much easier when your partner is similar to you and enjoys the same thing as you but in an extrovert-introvert relationship, both partners need to respect each other. They don’t have to push the other person to change too quickly or outside their comfort zone as this can have a negative impact on their relationship.
Establish boundaries
Extroverted and introverted partners need to figure out and establish their boundaries. For example, the introvert might demand 1 hour of alone time and the extrovert might want to spend 1 hour together talking about their day.
Have like-minded friends
It is nice to interact with people who are different from us as it can add something new to our life. The same applies to extroverts and introverts in a relationship. However, being around ‘different’ for too long can be draining. It is important that extroverted and introverted partners have like-minded friends with whom they can occasionally interact and be themself and feel comfortable.
FAQs: Are extroverts and introverts compatible?
Should introverts and extroverts get married?
Introverts and extroverts can get married and live in harmony provided that they understand and accept each other.
Can two introverts make a good couple?
Two introverts can make a good couple. However, it is highly possible that one introvert may be more outgoing than the other. To make their relationship work, it is important that both partners get out of their comfort zone to keep the relationship healthy.
What do introverts hate?
Introverts do not hate people. They are actually interested in understanding them. It’s just that they get drained after being around people for too long.
Conclusion
In this article, we answered the question ‘Are extroverts and introverts compatible?’. We found that Extroverts and introverts are compatible. Although, these people are opposite to each other in terms of how they gain energy and in their preference to spend their time. Yet, despite their differences, they make good partners for each other and have a balanced relationship provided that they work out their differences through clear communication.
I hope you found this article interesting. If you have any queries or comments, please state them in the comment section.