I just found out I’m an Ambivert. That means I fall dab smack in the middle of the introvert-extrovert spectrum. According to Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, ambiverts enjoy the best of both worlds. We are able to tap into either pole as needed.
I’ve been hearing about Cain’s book, most recently while talking with Ross Ozer, head of marketing for Fidelity Institutional Wealth Services, who hired Cain to provide her insights in the form of keynote speeches to Fidelity advisors and special guests in 2012.
In thinking about my own strengths and tendencies, I was unsure whether I was an introvert or an extrovert. Hmmm … I like parties and mingling at FPA events but, on the flipside, I like to write out my thoughts in a quiet, uninterrupted space, and find that the best way to recharge my batteries is by taking long, quiet walks.
My business partner, Leslie Swid, and my long-time husband, Bill Swift, are both self-declared introverts who sometimes swing into “pretend extrovert” roles, when needed. So I could clearly see a pattern and similarities there. And, I have to say, that their balanced insights and reflective approach add so much value to my life. But I am a risk taker and a bit of a blabbermouth when I get wound up, so their strengths balance mine out quite nicely.
So, I Googled the subject and up came Cain’s twelve question quiz. Frankly, until I took the quiz and got my results, I didn’t even know there was such as thing as an ambivert. But it’s kind of comforting to know I fit into some sort of bucket – I’m not just an oddball.
You might be interested in taking the Quiet Quiz, too: http://www.thepowerofintroverts.com/about-the-book/quiet-quiz-are-you-an-introvert
What did you find? Go take the quiz then come back and share your insights here.
Marie Swift is President and CEO of Impact Communications, a full-service marketing communications firm serving a select group of independent financial advisors and allied institutions.
