Have you ever not liked someone, but they never really gave you a reason why? You just don't like the cut of their jib. They didn't do anything to offend you, but you really can't stand being around them.
Sometimes a first meeting leaves us with a positive impression, but other times, we decide a person just isn't for us. It could be as straightforward as introversion versus extroversion. Introverts tend to regard extroverts as arrogant, pushy and a bit brash. Extroverts consider introverts quiet, insecure and hopelessly inept in social situations. This flash of judgment colors how future words and deeds are filtered and categorized, according to Psychology Today.
People like people who think like they do. Introverts and extroverts view the world differently and interact in the world differently, so they don't typically enjoy each other's company. Extroverts feed on the energy of others, while introverts draw on their own energy. Introverts are drained by each social interaction, while extroverts get a charge from social interactions.
Frustration can arise in differences in communication, according to Psychology Today. Introverts think before they speak, while extroverts can be a bit nonlinear. Extroverts interpret the pause between conversations as an opportunity to forge ahead in the conversation without realizing that the introvert was just collecting his thoughts. Introverts can bottle up this frustration until they explode, leaving extroverts totally confused about what just happened.
Extroverts are spontaneous and adventurous, which at first can be an attractive trait, but introverts quickly prefer the safety of planned actions.
Knowing how introverts and extroverts differ is the first step toward breaking a negative first impression, according to Psychology Today. Unfortunately, holding on to a first impression is easier for some who don't like to admit an error in judgment or who prefer not to see things another way. Often times, when a notion is formed, it remains unchanged.
Adopting a new stance or realizing why someone acts the way they do can be helpful in business and relationships. It also takes some pressure off to realize that it isn't you - it's who you are - that someone doesn't like.
