What it means to be an ambivert

Extroversion and introversion are two of the most recognizable personality types. Extroverts thrive on interaction and social experiences. They tend to love being around people and are often seen in large groups and drawn to new experiences. Introverts, on the other hand, gain energy from their internal world. They usually prefer small-group or solo activities and might need to recharge after long stretches of social interaction. 

When you think about personalities, it’s important to remember that they exist on a spectrum. Extroverts and introverts are common personality types. But they certainly aren’t the only two. So if you’ve never fully identified with one, you’re not alone. Ambiverts fall somewhere between extroversion and introversion. 

You might be an ambivert if you’re equally comfortable in solitude and social settings depending on the day. Learning more about this lesser-known personality type can help you connect to your unique strengths and know when to seek support.

What being an ambivert is like

You don’t need to experience an exact 50/50 combination of extroversion and introversion to be considered an ambivert. But you might resonate with this personality type if:

• You can be “on” and highly social when the need arises. But you can also enjoy quiet activities on your own.

• You don’t have a strong preference for group or solo experiences. You can find enjoyment in both.

• People who know you would say that you can be outgoing and talkative. But you’re also known as a good listener who doesn’t mind being out of the spotlight.

• You can feel energized from all different types of experiences (like hanging out in a big group of friends or cooking a quiet dinner for yourself at home).

Some experts suggest that there are subcategories of ambiversion. These personalities fall at different points along the extrovert/introvert spectrum. For example:

• Outgoing introverts are ambiverts who enjoy socializing but not quite as much as they love spending time alone. 

• Reserved extroverts are ambiverts who prefer to spend most of their time socializing. But they still have a slight need for solitude. 

Another similar personality type to be aware of is the omnivert. Omniverts are similar to ambiverts in that they experience a combination of extroversion and introversion. They go back and forth between the opposite ends of the spectrum, being both incredibly quiet at times and very outgoing at other times. However, ambiverts typically have a more balanced combination of extroverted and introverted traits.

Where being an ambivert comes from

We don’t yet know exactly what causes someone to become an ambivert. However, we do know that personality is influenced by things like:

• Genetics

• Culture

• Values

• Environment

• Life experiences

• Relationships

Like other personality types, there’s nothing wrong with being an ambivert. On its own, it isn’t a sign that you have a mental health condition. However, if an ambivert begins leaning into extreme introversion or extroversion at the expense of their mental well-being, it could be a sign that they need support.

The impact of being an ambivert

One of the strengths of ambiverts is their ability to navigate diverse experiences and situations. An ambivert can be the life of the party one day. The next day, they could be just as content curled up at home with a book. This flexibility can help ambiverts navigate life’s ups and downs and find joy in all sorts of settings. But life as an ambivert isn’t without its challenges. 

Most people have heard of the introvert-extrovert binary. But they might be less familiar with ambiverts, which sometimes leads this personality type to get overlooked. When you don’t easily fit into one “box,” it can lead to misunderstandings or mismatched expectations. 

But remember, you don’t need to change who you are to please anyone else. Recognizing your strengths and preferences is the first step in communicating them to others.

Managing an ambivert personality

If you’re looking to strike a healthy balance between extroversion and introversion, here are some tips that can help:

• Learn about ambiversion. If you’ve never felt aligned with the extrovert or introvert label, learning about ambiversion can help you understand yourself better.

• Give yourself permission to say “no.” As an ambivert, flexibility is your superpower. But just because you can thrive in social or solo situations doesn’t mean you always have to. Trust yourself to choose the activities that feel best for you at any given time.

• Embrace energy shifts. Plan ahead, and consider what you might need after a day of socializing. What activities help you relax and wind down? Alternatively, what do you need when you’ve had too much alone time? What are some activities that help you feel connected to other people? 

• Ask for help. As an ambivert, there may be times when you need outside support. If you’re having trouble balancing your energy, therapy can provide a safe space to explore your personality type and practice communicating your needs and preferences to others.

Clinician's take

It’s natural for ambiverts to crave both connection and alone time. It allows them to build relationships that feel balanced and engaged, while also taking space to recharge. When you honor both sides of your personality, you can connect with others more authentically and maintain your emotional energy.

Ashley Ayala, LMFT

Clinical reviewer

Find care with Rula

Human personalities are wonderfully varied, and they exist on a spectrum. You’ve probably heard of extroverts and introverts. But ambiverts fall somewhere in the middle. Ambiverts don’t necessarily have a strong preference for solitude or social interaction. They can enjoy both (almost) equally and can be comfortable in groups or all alone.

One of the challenges of being an ambivert is that fewer people are familiar with this personality type. This can lead ambiverts to be overlooked or misunderstood. However, learning more about ambiversion can help you recognize it in yourself and others. Embracing this part of your identity can help you harness your unique strengths, manage your energy levels, and advocate for your needs.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we're here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.