Do Extroverts and Introverts Exist? | Aurora Leung-Vermette | TEDxWalter Murray Collegiate Youth

Every person has at least 50 labels associated with their character, from their name to stereotypes. Humans are wired to seek groups and belonging, a concept reinforced by societal foundations like education and social circles. We’re conditioned from birth to categorize ourselves. For example, in Canada, children are encouraged to think about careers and extracurriculars at a young age, predetermining certain behaviors. A child aspiring to be a neurosurgeon might focus heavily on academics, limiting other activities and making average grades seem devastating. These stereotypes and labels have a significant impact, especially with technology and online quizzes. The speaker frequently took the Myer-Briggs test, noting its accuracy to an extent, but found the "I" or "E" (introvert or extrovert) problematic. Introversion and extroversion, defined by how one regains energy (alone or with others), are often assessed through specific questions. However, the speaker's answers changed over time, revealing that introversion and extroversion exist on a spectrum. This speech argues that stereotypes behind labels like "introvert" and "extrovert" can limit individuals from stepping out of their comfort zones, and that these categories might not be as distinct as perceived. While the terms originated with Carl Jung, who focused on inner self versus the outside world, and research shows extroverts have more dopamine receptors, the modern definition has shifted from energy to personality traits like outgoing versus shy. This shift influences behavior. Identifying as an introvert, for instance, has been linked to increased likelihood of anxiety or depression due to negative associations. The speaker recounted how identifying as an introvert in their pre-teen years led to rude and reclusive behavior, which they now recognize as ignorance, not introversion. Similarly, extroverts can develop FOMO (fear of missing out), feeling compelled to socialize even when not mentally ready, leading to stress and anger. Labels can predetermine how one feels in situations; introverts might assume they'll have a bad time going out, while extroverts might find staying home boring. These stigmas can be devastating to mental health. The issue extends beyond introversion and extroversion to a "fixed mindset"—mentally limiting oneself based on labels like "I'm not good at math." This mindset leads to irritability, limited performance, and reduced self-esteem. Instead, a "growth mindset" allows for open options, embodying the belief "you can't do it yet." Adding "yet" to self-limiting statements can significantly improve outcomes. Students adopting a growth mindset were three times more likely to finish in the top 20% of a test. This mindset also reduces anxiety and depression for introverts and FOMO for extroverts, fostering self-security. The speaker isn't advocating for eliminating labels but updating them. They are black and white, failing to represent a spectrum. Even Jung believed pure introverts or extroverts don't exist. In reality, most people are "ambiverts"—a mix of both. An ambivert balances social interaction with solitude. Pure introverts and extroverts are often a result of a fixed mindset, refusing to feel outside expected norms. Recognizing oneself as an ambivert or dropping labels entirely can lead to increased effort, reduced challenges, and greater freedom, positively impacting mental health. Individuals have the power to change societal molds through small mindset shifts.