Adrian Volenik
We often split people into two groups – introverts and extroverts. But that’s not the whole picture. There are many layers between them, and most people aren’t either.
Those people are called ambiverts. They have balanced and nuanced personalities formed of both extroverted and introverted traits.
But in today’s article, you’ll learn the traits of low-key introverts who display introverted tendencies but in a more understated manner.
So let’s jump right in.
1) Enjoying solitude
This has to be in the first place, right? Enjoying solitude is what we picture classic introverts do the most.
If you’re a low-key introvert, you’ll also find comfort, enjoyment, and relaxation in spending time alone.
That doesn’t mean you dislike being around people altogether, but you simply need regular periods of privacy to recharge and recover energy after social interactions.
For me, spending time alone or only with my wife and kid is the best. We go to the beach and enjoy our time together.
The irony is that my three-year-old is extremely outgoing and always finds new people on the beach with who he wants to play.
That means I have to have awkward conversations with strangers on a daily basis.
2) Enjoying small groups
Unlike extroverts who thrive in large crowds and parties, if you prefer more intimate settings with a small group of close friends or family members, you might be a low-key introvert.
When in large groups or unfamiliar settings, low-key introverts appear more reserved or withdrawn. They choose to observe from the sidelines rather than being the center of attention.
I don’t blame them. Social interactions can be awkward and draining, especially in lengthy or high-energy social situations like parties.
Most introverts I know need to recharge by spending time alone after being around others for extended periods.
That’s why they like small groups and gatherings better. They feel more comfortable and engaged in deeper conversations within these settings.
3) You love having deep conversations
Chitchat is boring, it’s awkward, it has no real substance, and mostly comes down to talking about the weather.
Low-key introverts, therefore, appreciate meaningful conversations that explore topics more in-depth. They try to avoid superficial discussions at all costs and actively look for interactions where they can connect with others on a deeper level.
The issue is that in order to get to know a person better, you need to have that initial chitchat to gauge what they like and what they’re really into.
So although small talk is boring, it has a role when meeting someone for the first time. You just need to be better at it to get to the gist of it faster.
4) You’re selective with friendships
Having many friends is also not something that introverts typically do. As I just said, they value deep and meaningful connections with others.
That’s why they’re more likely to have a few close friends they trust rather than a large circle of acquaintances.
If you’re like that, it means quality is more important to you than the number of friends you have.
You value friendships that are meaningful, genuine, and built on trust, empathy, and mutual understanding.
Trust is one of the most crucial factors in your friendships. You’ll likely be cautious about who you open up to and share your inner thoughts and feelings with.
And in the end, once you establish trust with someone, you’re likely to be loyal and devoted to the friendship.
5) Dislike being the center of attention
I don’t consider myself fully introverted, more low-key, or even just shy, especially in the past. But if I ever hated something, it was being the center of attention.
But I think it’s safe to say all introverts feel uncomfortable being the center of attention or receiving excessive praise. They much prefer modesty and humility in their interactions.
Having all eyes in a room or, even worse, a classroom turn their attention to you is extremely fear-inducing.
What about you? Are you the same?
6) Enjoying nature
Thank God for Nature. It’s a safe haven for introverts as it provides a sense of peace and tranquility.
Spending time outdoors or in natural settings is one of the best ways for them to recharge and find inspiration.
I prefer going to the beach, but I know many people prefer parks and forests as the greenery is more soothing.
On the other side, some introverts I know wouldn’t be caught dead going into nature as they prefer urban areas the most.
To each their own, I guess.
7) You’re observant
Low-key introverts often pay attention to details and subtle cues in their surroundings, which makes them highly observant.
They’re sensitive to changes in their surroundings. Whether it’s changes in people’s moods or shifts in the atmosphere of a room, they’re quick to pick up on these changes.
For example, when they walk into a gathering and quickly sense that a close friend seems a bit off.
They notice the subtle shift in their friend’s body language and facial expressions, which encourages them to approach their friend later to offer support and see if everything’s okay.
8) Thinking before speaking
Do you think before speaking, or do you often blurt out things unexpectedly?
I’m asking because introverts prefer to carefully process their thoughts before sharing them, making their conversations more thoughtful and insightful.
When faced with surprising or emotionally charged situations, low-key introverts are less likely to react impulsively.
Instead, they give themselves time to process their emotions and thoughts before responding, leading to more composed reactions.
9) You prefer writing
Writing is a preferred form of communication for low-key introverts, as it allows them to express their thoughts and feelings more clearly and thoughtfully.
I find written communication, such as emails or texts, preferable as it allows me to organize my thoughts and respond in a way that aligns with my measured communication style.
Taking the time to organize thoughts and articulate complex ideas without the pressure of immediate responses is such a relief.
But writing is much more than emailing and texting. For many low-key introverts, writing serves as an emotional release.
It provides a safe space to process feelings and experiences without the need for face-to-face interactions, which might be more challenging for some introverts.
That’s also why many introverts find comfort in online communities where they can engage in discussions without the pressure of immediate exchanges.
10) You have a reflective nature
Spending time in Nature, writing, and journaling is a great way to reflect on things, isn’t it?
Low-key introverts often reflect on past experiences, analyze what they’ve learned, and use those insights to shape their future decisions and actions.
When faced with significant choices, they take their time to consider all aspects thoroughly. Rushing into decisions is not their style, as they prefer to weigh the pros and cons before committing.
Think about this for a moment. Do you have a reflective nature?
11) You’re content with hobbies
Hobbies are a great outlet to escape from everyday life and its responsibilities. Low-key introverts often have solitary hobbies or activities they find fulfilling and enjoyable.
They appreciate the freedom to explore their interests without needing constant social interaction or external validation.
But these hobbies are also an avenue for self-expression and relaxation, and the meditative quality of some hobbies allows them to gain insights and better understand themselves.
For me, the best evening includes playing board games with my friends. It checks all the boxes:
- Familiar setting
- A small group of friends
- Meaningful interactions
- Focused activities
- Shared interests
- Opportunities for breaks
- Sense of control
- Emphasis on listening
12) You’re an independent worker
And lastly, if you often work effectively on your own, you’re probably a low-key introvert.
I mean, it’s pretty obvious that they prefer quieter work environments where they can focus without distraction and can be highly productive when given the space to do so.
The work from home revolution that happened during the pandemic was Godsent to all introverts as they no longer have to deal with the busy and awkward office setting.
It’s no wonder many people are fighting tooth and nail not to go back to the office. I know I would, too.
Final thoughts
Being a low-key introvert isn’t a bad thing. In my opinion, it beats being a full-blown introvert.
Yes, you’re kind of awkward in some social settings, and yes, you prefer hanging out with your closest friends or family, but that’s the best kind of socializing anyway.
