As an introverted extrovert, I can vouch for the fact that being a “shy extravert” is a real and complex personality type.
Trust me, we’re not just pretending to be introverted to be mysterious or cool (although, let’s be real, it can have its perks).
In fact, I’d go as far as to say that shy extraverts are some of the most interesting and multi-faceted individuals out there.
But what exactly sets shy extraverts apart from their more extroverted counterparts?
Here are 9 character traits of the unusual “shy extrovert”:
1) They’re ambivert
It’s obvious, isn’t it?
It’s like they’ve got one foot in the introverted world and one foot in the extroverted world, making it hard to pinpoint exactly how much of each trait they possess.
But honestly, that’s what makes shy extraverts so interesting to others.
They’re both energized and drained by social situations. They crave social interaction, but they don’t necessarily enjoy it all the time.
Shy extraverts need their alone time to recharge, although they don’t want to miss out on all the fun. It’s a delicate balance, but it’s part of what makes them unique.
In short, they are the ultimate social chameleons.
2) They’re highly empathetic
Shy extraverts are masters of empathy.
They’re able to imagine being in the shoes of other people, which allows them to understand and relate to them better than most.
As a result, shy extraverts tend to have strong connections with their loved ones.
Their highly developed empathy also allows shy extraverts to resolve conflicts quickly without too much fuss.
They have a natural ability to identify with others’ thoughts and feelings, making them skilled at comforting others during difficult times.
You can say that they’re compassionate listeners.
I’ll explain more in my next point.
3) They’re often great listeners
You’ll never meet an extrovert who has a better ear for listening than a shy extravert.
In fact, many shy extraverts become therapists because of their natural talent for putting others at ease.
Shy extraverts are great listeners and attentive conversationalists because they’re always paying attention.
Taking in the little details as much as the bigger picture.
This character trait helps them not only gain insight into people’s moods, but also whether they are comfortable or uncomfortable around them.
As timid as they may be, shy extraverts can offer a wealth of perspective and advice to others who are more outgoing than them.
4) They’re deep thinkers
Tying into the fact that they tend to listen a lot, people assume shy extraverts can’t think very deeply.
But in reality, they’re often so deep in thought they don’t realise anyone else is there!
Shy extraverts are always thinking.
Always questioning.
It’s also easy for them to slip into thinking about themselves.
After all, we’re a self-absorbed bunch, don’t you think?
They like to examine things from every angle, which means they’re usually pretty good at problem solving, too.
Their introverted side allows them to look at things with a fresh perspective and approach issues from a logical point of view.
5) They’re very intuitive
It’s like they’re crystal ball gazers.
It doesn’t mean that they’re clairvoyants.
But they’re definitely very perceptive.
Shy extraverts often rely on their instincts to guide them, and may have a natural ability to sense when something isn’t quite right.
They’re always thinking about things that have yet to happen.
Sometimes maybe a bit too hard….
As a very intuitive person myself, I can say that it’s both a blessing and a curse.
It can be exhausting and uneasy always knowing when something bad is about to happen.
But it also helps me notice little cues that others may miss, and enables me to predict how events may unfold based on prior knowledge or experience.
6) They have mysterious and fascinating aura
Another interesting character trait of shy extraverts.
They all share a mysterious charm about them.
Even if it doesn’t seem immediately obvious at first glance.
Shy extraverts don’t make a huge effort to socialise or draw attention to themselves.
Because they’d rather be in a corner somewhere watching everyone else.
If you’re a shy extravert, you know what I’m talking about.
That strange and captivating aura that surrounds us when we’re in certain situations.
Yes, I’m talking about our moments of social awkwardness.
When we get “shy extroverted”, which is basically a combination of all the awkwardness that goes with being an introverted extravert.
Perhaps it’s the fact that we enjoy being out in the world but would rather do things OUR way.
Maybe it stems from our perfectionist tendencies as a result of all our deep thinking.
7) They have a fear of failure
This is because they often get too caught up in the moment and fail to see the bigger picture.
They experience failure often due to their quick judgement and lack of preparation.
And they usually realise it only once the damage is done.
That’s right.
This might seem like a negative trait, but it’s actually a huge positive quality!
How so?
Well, being afraid of failing is what makes them so great at solving problems and making decisions.
They know that sometimes things don’t work out the way we planned them (or wanted) to.
So they make sure to do as many things as possible before stepping into something new.
And sometimes, a little support can go a long way.
With the right support and encouragement from the right people, they can overcome this fear and truly thrive.
Because if they don’t, it can negatively impact their vulnerability.
I’ll get into more details in my next point.
8) They can sometimes be vulnerable
And they worry about everything too.
Opinions of others, worries about the future, regrets about the past….
Not all shy extraverts are so confident.
It’s just that their social anxiety often limits their ability to express themselves.
As well as opening up to others about their true feelings and thoughts.
As a result, they’ll wonder if they’re even good enough and whether other people find them weird.
This can make them seem distant or guarded at times.
But it doesn’t have to be a bad thing!
Once they feel safe and trusted, they can be some of the most open and honest individuals you’ll ever meet.
Shy extraverts always find ways of overcoming their fears, and discover the confidence to become outgoing bakers in other ways.
9) They’re complex individuals
I think this is the most notable trait of shy extraverts.
They are complex individuals who don’t fit neatly into any one box.
Yet they’re also some of the most relatable and simple too.
This is because they’re very calm, and may be more laid-back than you realise.
They may surprise you with their seemingly contradictory traits.
But this only adds to their charm and intrigue.
How else are they complex?
Well, they can be very emotional and sensitive.
But they also have a tough exterior that belies their inner emotional turmoil.
They can be shy, but also really outgoing.
They can be quiet, but also very fun.
These are not the type of personality traits you’ll see in an introvert.
Best of both worlds
Shy extraverts are not as rare as you might think.
It’s just that they go largely unnoticed at first glance.
Because they’re more likely to blend in with the background and fade into the crowd.
They have the sharp thinking and insightfulness of an introvert.
But also have the confidence, boldness and willingness to take action like an extravert.
It’s not always easy being a shy extravert.
But there’s nothing wrong with being a little shy and outspoken at the same time!
If you’re one of these people, then I guarantee that you are not alone in your feelings.
It’s important to embrace and accept these traits as part of who you are, rather than trying to fit into a mould that doesn’t quite fit.
