Extroverts on Sunday

Famous last words to an Introvert spouse! 😅


Today was our monthly church potluck, but I didn’t feel like attending. With the temperature soaring over 109 degrees and the lack of air conditioning in the downstairs kitchen—just a swamp cooler that struggles in this heat—it was hard to motivate myself. In dry climates like ours, evaporative coolers were common before AC became affordable, providing some relief from the heat and reducing static electricity issues.

ANYWAY, there’s air conditioning upstairs, which offers relief from the heat. However, as tempting as it is, we can't just plop our food in the cool oasis of the sanctuary and call it a potluck!

Not cool -😎



"Does that mean you're an introvert?" 
 
No, it just means I prefer to avoid fainting and sweating bullets. 





Being married to an extrovert 👆


My husband is an extrovert who truly thrives on the buzz of social gatherings at the church.  He loves to talk, talk, talk, and tell stories.  He doesn't listen as well as he should. I often have to tag team him - fill him in on the things he missed, because he is too busy talking. 

That's teamwork in an introvert/extrovert relationship. 




So, what exactly are these extroverts all about? 




Extroverts are vibrant individuals who draw their energy from engaging with others and flourish in social settings. They are often characterized as outgoing, enthusiastic, "the life of a party," and expressive, effortlessly sparking conversations and embracing interactions with a sense of eagerness. They love to be the center of attention, although most won't admit it.



They often have a huge group of friends for years and are great at public speaking. They are uncomfortable with true solitude and prefer being around others. Outgoing and sociable, they enjoy group activities and networking and seek out new experiences, always looking for someone to connect with.

They almost always take the lead in group discussions, which can sometimes overshadow the contributions of quieter individuals, who may feel less inclined to share their insights. Extroverts often have a heightened need for social validation; they actively seek the approval and recognition of their peers, which can shape their interactions and decisions. They have a predisposition to burnout. With a tendency to juggle numerous social commitments, extroverts may find themselves stretched too thin, resulting in emotional exhaustion and a lingering sense of depletion.

Extroversion is highly valued in Western cultures, where assertiveness and sociability are seen as positive traits. In contrast, Eastern cultures often prioritize humility and harmony. Extroverts typically possess high energy levels and engage in various sports and activities. They also excel as storytellers, using their expressive nature to captivate audiences. They excel in marketing and sales and are natural leaders. They may struggle with remote work due to needing energy and motivation from others, and can come off as needy without social engagement.

My Mom and my sister were extroverts while my dad was an introvert. 

It is mostly inherited and somewhat environmental. No one chooses. It's in your DNA. Our personality traits are influenced by genetics, with studies suggesting that up to 60% of personality can be inherited. However, environmental factors also play a role in shaping how these traits are expressed.





One of the funniest things about extroverts is that they are fascinated by us introverts. 

Whereas we naturally run shy away from them. 
We can see them coming. 
👀👀👀




In yesterday's post, I reflected on my close friendships, all of which are predominantly extroverted except for two of them. As long as they avoid the urge to “fix” me, that’s when our connection truly thrives. I'm not one for lengthy phone conversations that stretch into hours; instead, a simple text is all I need to feel connected and engaged. 





They think we're weird - and since they are such people persons, they are interested in people. They're okay with us being weird. 💕💕


Some Famous Extroverts:

Bill Clinton, Steve Jobs, Benjamin Franklin, Martin Luther King, Elizabeth 1, Catherine the Great, Aristotle, Muhammad Ali, Margaret Thatcher, Marie Antoinette. 


Biblical characters that might

 Have been an extroverted: 


⬇️⬇️⬇️







Peter: The Apostle Peter is often seen as a bold and outgoing person, known for his willingness to speak up about his beliefs. A great example of this is when he confidently declared Jesus to be the Messiah, which is a significant moment captured in Matthew 16:16. This not only showed his strong faith but also his bravery in sticking to what he believed. 

David: King David was a vibrant leader who expressed his extroverted nature through energetic leadership and heartfelt worship. One famous moment was when he joyfully danced before the Lord, as seen in 2 Samuel 6:14, sharing his emotions and devotion with the community. 

Martha: In the New Testament, Martha is portrayed as a warm and caring person dedicated to hosting, as seen in Luke 10:38-42. While she busily prepares a meal for her guests, her sister takes a moment for quiet reflection. This highlights the balance between being active in service and pausing to reflect on our faith. 

People with outgoing, extroverted personalities have made a significant impact in the Bible, demonstrating that God can work through all kinds of personalities to fulfill His plans. Each person contributes unique qualities, enhancing the diversity of God’s work. However, it was the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, not their extroverted strength, that spread the message worldwide. This serves as a reminder that the true source of their impact lies in the divine rather than in human effort.




If you overlooked yesterday's post about introverts, there's a quiz that allows you to discover whether you identify more as an Introvert or an Extrovert.






Until next time,

Debby

Comments

  1. I am sure more like you, do not like long phone conversations. I'm just glad our extrovert husbands love us the way they are and don't try to change us!

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    1. I used to talk on the phone as a teenager and young adult for hours. I look at it as a major time waster.

      Delete
  2. Debby, this is one of the most fascinating posts I've read in a long time. I read all of this post, went back to the previous one (because I'm behind in my blog-reading), and then clicked on the link to take the test and read more articles that were associated with that. I'm a "outgoing introvert," and I pretty much knew that before today. BUT, I've been in a lot of smaller churches that fit that description of wanting me to be busy with so much, working with children when that's just about the last thing I desire or have the talent to do. In smaller churches, the pressure is ON! I'm much older now, wiser, and have learned how to avoid what is not a good fit for me. Thank you for sharing this information. It is so confirming!!! (and I REALLY LIKED all the places these articles specifically said that introverts tend to prefer writing to talking-- that is so true!!!)

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Boy I know about the smaller churches! You can’t hide. That’s fine as long as you stand your ground and say no if you have to. It’s self preservation! 😉
      So glad you enjoyed it. It was fun for me, too

      Delete
  3. Now if you are talking about phone calls - I hate the phone. I would much rather go out for coffee. lol

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    1. I don’t answer our landline (or use it for that matter) that we still have and the only calls we get are spam. We use our cell phones. I keep meaning to get rid of it but then I’d probably get more spam calls on my cell phone.

      Delete
  4. Guess what? We had a potluck today too. It's very hot and humid here too so it was held inside and we have AC thankfully...
    I did do the quiz and thought those questions were quite interesting - and telling!

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    1. It got to 110 today so I’m glad I stayed home.
      I’m glad you took the quiz. There are more lengthy quizzes that really go into what type of extrovert or introvert one is.

      Delete
  5. I missed yesterday's post, so now I need to go back and read it. But I already know that I tend to be an extrovert, however, in my "old age" I tend to appreciate being an introvert now and then. It could be an easy pattern to fall into and once I get there, it is hard to get back out there into the world of extroversion. I get comfy on my chair and don't want to leave the house. But I've always been an extrovert in younger years, which served us well throughout our years of being in the ministry. Hubby is also pretty much an extrovert, being a teacher, preacher, and great story teller and loves to be be the center of attention. But since he hasn't been feeling well, he's getting more comfy staying at home and I have to encourage him to get back up and go. Little by little we are getting back in the swing of things again, but it's slow going. It's kind of like "the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak". I appreciated this post. Yes, I've always been a "Martha", and frankly, I have gotten a little peeved at Jesus' response to Martha about Mary, etc. But I know Jesus understands how I feel and He doesn't hold it against me. (All I asked for was a little help in the kitchen...is that so bad???) LOL. Thank you for this. I enjoy it.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. I tend to be a “Mary” but I agree about the help in the kitchen. That is one of the things that drives me crazy at my church. There’s never enough help and it’s us old gals doing it all while the younger ones are sitting.

      I could totally tell you are an extrovert.

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  6. Boy, am I right there with you Debby. My Husband is the extrovert in the family. I love all the behind the scenes "stuff" and am happy t do it. Pamela's comments about being a Martha resonates with me too.
    I seem to be quite satisfied to stay home and putter than to be BUSY.
    What a great 2 part series. Thanks for doing this.
    Sue

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    Replies
    1. I hardly ever get bored at home.
      Glad you enjoyed it.

      Delete
  7. I'm not sure whether I am an extrovert or an introvert. I'm too shy to find out. I think I'm some sort of vert. I've been told that at great heights I get some type of vert and can fall off. It also happens when I tiptoe to get something from a shelf up high.

    God bless.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Haha that’s what my husband says! 😅 He’s just a Vert. I love that.
      You, shy??? I know one thing about you. You’re quick witted with the puns. You must be the life of every party. 🎈

      Delete
  8. Good morning, this was an interesting post-enjoyed it-I wouldn't have wanted to go to the potluck either-and might not have been safe for the foods either without proper cooling.
    Have a good new week

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    1. They had a BBQ but you are right. One reason I don’t care for pot lucks like I used to is the food handling and the lack of proper sanitation. I’ve had a few bouts of food poisoning from them. The church lady might be a wonderful human being but that doesn’t mean she practices good kitchen hygiene with the handling of food. 🤮

      Delete
  9. My husband is an extrovert and I'd prefer just staying alone in my little shell. Sometimes it takes a lot of strength just for me to leave the house and I probably look so awkward when trying to talk to others.

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    1. I understand. There have been times like that for me. Seems us introverts have extroverted husbands.

      Delete
  10. While I do love being with people and enjoying good times, I'm a wreck if I can't have times of quiet and solitude. My introvert nature almost always wins out in the end. Like you, I don't enjoy small talk, chatting on the phone except when it's a FaceTime with family members. My husband loves to talk, too. I've learned to sit back and let him do the talking for both of us. LOL! Blessings!

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Oh I hear you! I’m the same way. I don’t enjoy small talk either and since my husband is never at a loss for words, I just let him do most of the talking. I’m much better at one on one talking.

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  11. Hi, I am an introvert. So I totally get this post. ;-)
    xx oo
    Carla

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    1. You too?? Awesome. We’re pretty darn special. 😉

      Delete
  12. I loved hearing about your school shopping days in San Francisco. That would be a unique experience shopping down Market Street and browsing through the shops. My mom always took us to JCPenney. And we were grateful to get just a few new clothes, socks, and shoes, as she sewed most of my clothes growing up. It's fun to hear about others' school days. Thanks for sharing.

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    1. I remember as I was approaching the teen years, the many discussions in the dressing room - my mom and I disagreeing over the definition of how short was too short on the dresses and skirts. Good memories!

      Delete
  13. At least air upstairs, I suppose better than none. I grew up without air. Never noticed though. Too much fun being a kid to care about the heat.

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  14. Oh, I thought this was the same post as yesterday cause I saw Woody haha. Well, where do I start. Peter, the Apostle, I love him to bits. While introverts have their special talents, the world needs people who are leaders and voice their opinions in the face of wrong, make sure those (like the children) are treated right and are safe and protected. There are so many things that the extrovert can do in this life. And it can be exhausting at times for the extravert when they have to speak up for those who are unwilling or incapable of doing so. Extraverts are sometimes associated with being controversial, but the truth is, they make their voices heard for reasons, maybe to defend unfairness, or to make things better for the very young and the very old. It's funny how your survey shows either this or that. I really think that we all possess some introvert and extrovert, depending on the situation we're in. I love the story of Martha and Mary. On The Chosen, Jesus explained it beautifully. I can see Martha going on trying to please everyone and be a good host, but if I was right there with Jesus, I would want to be like Mary and just sit and listen. We need both the extroverts and the introverts, but it's important for me to know that I'm just a servant and the lovely dust that is used to proclaim the glory of God.

    ~Sheri

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    1. Many believe introverts can't achieve as much good in the world as extroverts. Great introverts like Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, Dr. Seuss, Steven Spielberg, Elon Musk, and others have made significant impacts on the world. Don't count out the introverts of the world.

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  15. See thats me too at work. I am both as I said before. I am the weird one. LOL Janice

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    1. You're not weird. You sound more like an ambivert. A combination of both.

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  16. These memes are so great! I think I appreciate them most on account you've absolutely nailed my hubby. I'm going over to take that quiz now ... love stuff like that.

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  17. I am an introvert preferring my own company most of the time and no I don't get lonely nor do I get bored

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