Relatable Memes For Introverts and Misanthropes Alike

There's a long history of pitting introverts against extroverts, and a long history of stereotypes about the two. Introverts are supposed to be shy, boring, and antisocial, while extroverts are obnoxiously the opposite: loud, attention-seeking and annoying socialites.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the actual definition of introvert is as follows:

"introvert: a person whose personality is characterized by introversion : a typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone."

This is less about disliking people and more about turning in towards oneself, and fully appreciating time spent alone. I think that the way to think of introverts vs extroverts has more to do with how they recharge. It may bring excitement or a confidence boost for an extrovert to be around people, telling stories, sharing experiences. Introverts, however, are replenished by solitude and deep thinking. It's less about being shy than it is about being more picky about ones social engagements.

Society's portrayal of introverts, however, makes it seem like they have a lot of the same qualities as misanthropes (people who hate people.) While we don't stand by this representation, we can recognize some overlap in the memes that are geared towards both these types of people. Memes about not wanting small talk or wanting to skip the night out in favor of staying home can apply to both the haters and those in seek of alone time. And honestly, even as extroverts, we can relate to them, too.

Posted by Ada Elder