Oftentimes, people have tried to categorize my lifestyle “Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” they ask. Well, I always smile and respond, “I’m more of both.”
Even in moments of games, “this or that” instagram story template, and generally people trying to get to know me in a new place. They’re intrigued and most of them believe that one must be either of the two. The truth is, I’ve found so much joy and fulfillment in being both - an ambivert, I thrive in the middle of both. I enjoy the balance of connecting with the world I live in and also retreat to connect deeply with myself in my own little space.
As an ambivert, I love to adventure. There’s something thrilling about going around having fun most especially with things that make you happy. For me, it’s getting to eat good food that I didn’t make myself, having fun and laughing with friends and family, discovering new amazing places, seeing life from a different point of view and exploring other people’s way of life.
There have been times that I had picnics with friends and colleagues, gone hiking with friends, travelled together and tried new things with others, outside of my comfort zone and I must tell you that I had the times of my life - they were marvelous!
On the other hand, I love my comfort. The coziness of being alone in my clean little space plus the environment that matches my aesthetics. I love being curled up at home trying a recipe I learnt for myself, reading a good book, enjoying my hobbies and exploring my creative talents. I do love to pick up a new skill once in a while and challenge myself to projects. Speaking of skills, the one I picked up recently is crochet. Like I said, I’ve challenged myself to make my own dresses.
I love my lifestyle because I don’t have to choose between these two personalities. While I have fun going out like a free bird, meeting new people, laughing with family and friends, I also really enjoy solitude and the activities that bring me peace and fulfillment.
One of the best parts of being an ambivert is my numerous interests. I enjoy hiking, going to events, picnics, business meetings, hangouts and even just a casual stroll along my street, moving my body and connecting with people and nature. There are even more that I’m yet to discover.
But then there are my indoor days, which are just as sacred. I love watching movies, reading, journaling, karaoke, and creating content. Writing especially holds a special place in my heart, it’s my way of processing the world and expressing myself. Cooking is another favorite indoor activity that I absolutely love.
If you asked me what I love the most about being an ambivert, I’d tell you it’s the balance it brings to my life. I am like a chameleon, I can switch personalities to fit the environment easily. I can match the energy of friends who love the outdoors, laugh loudly, and dance in a party without shame. Whenever I’m in the midst of introverts too, I maintain the energy, observe quiet moments, take things slow and have calm conversations.This balance has made me more self-aware, gosh! I know when I need to step back and recharge, and I’m also aware of when I need to get out of my comfort zone to connect with others.
Being an ambivert has also helped me cultivate a richer fulfilling life. I’ve made memories at noisy outings, talk about clubbing with friends and serene retreats, talk about journaling. I’ve discovered some passions in my quiet times and through the noisy group activities. This has made my life flexible and I’ve gained meaningful relationships and experiences that might have been hard to get if I had chosen to be in one direction.
People often say being an ambivert means sitting on the fence but for me, it’s about enjoying the beauty of life from multiple perspectives. It’s the freedom to be myself in every situation, to enjoy the world in an authentic way. However, the next time someone asks me, “Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” I’ll smile again, knowing that I don’t have to stick to one. Life is too big for that.
The picture attached is mine
Thank you for reading.