Personality is defined as the qualities of our character and behaviour, the characteristics that make up the type of person we are. It is thought of as being formed by various factors, including the people we grow up around, life experiences and genetics.

There are many theories to personality and lots of different labels to describe what a person is like, but two of the main traits are described as ‘introvert’ and ‘extrovert’.

Introverts are usually seen as quiet and introspective. They enjoy a night in at home where they can recharge their batteries away from others. At the opposite end of the scale, extroverts are seen as more outgoing and chattier. They gain their energy from being around other people, and like to socialise.

Extroverts may dominate discussions

In all areas of life, including at school and in the workplace, there are always different personality types. In the classroom, the extroverts may dominate the discussion, while the introverts thoughtfully come up with the ideas. Extroverts may hang around with a group of friends, and introverts may be loners. Extroverts may enjoy lessons where they can work together as a group, whereas introverts may prefer solo tasks such as research and reading.

In the workplace, extroverts may thrive in jobs that require talking to people a lot, or that require skills in negotiating and selling, whereas introverts are more interested in work that they can get on with on their own, and perhaps roles that deal with machines and technology rather than being face-to-face with people.

Diversity makes up a good team

Whether in the classroom or work environment, it’s the diversity of people that makes up a good team – including different personality types. Having a variety of characters then means people can play off each others’ strengths by working on the aspects they are competent in, and learn and improve from others’ skills.

Even though personality traits are seen as stable and fixed, personality is not always clear cut and can change depending on our environment, circumstances or social company. For instance, a child who appears quiet in class, who is nervous about answering questions in front of their peers, may attend a drama group at weekends where they feel more free to express themselves.
Similarly, the person in the office who is always talking loudly and making jokes may act calmer and more reflective when they go home to their family.

There is no right or wrong personality

All in all, there is no good or bad, or right or wrong personality. Personality is a sliding scale and everyone has a mixture of their own good points and less desirable characteristics. It’s about having respect for diversity and everyone’s differences – if we were all the same, life would be very boring!