By Donna Dunning

It’s often tempting to see differences as a problem rather than appreciate their value. The important first step in developing understanding and appreciation is to see the positive aspects of all preferences.

Reframing Extraversion

If you prefer Introversion, you may find yourself labeling people who prefer Extraversion as impulsive, loud, or shallow. Instead, reframe the characteristics of Extraversion using positive descriptors such as:

• Quick to act

• Participative

• Processing information broadly

Reframing Introversion

If you prefer Extraversion, you may find yourself labeling people who prefer Introversion as overly cautious, withdrawn, or slow to act. Instead, reframe the characteristics of Introversion using positive descriptors such as:

• Careful

• Reflective

• Processing information deeply

Replacing negative descriptors with their positive counterparts emphasizes the benefits of having and/or using a preference.

What negative descriptors do you find yourself using for Extraversion or Introversion? Can you reframe these more positively?

Information in this post has been modified and excerpted from TLC at Work: Training, Leading, Coaching all Types for Star Performance.