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Anonymous

05/14/20 at 5:08PM UTC

Health

Is zoom fatigue worse for extroverts?

I thought video calls would leave me happy vs. exhausted --- because at least it's a way of social interaction (which I need as an extravert). Face-to-face digital interactions with back-to-back video calls haven't been in my favor when it comes to my actual attention span. I think it has to do with the fact that it requires a new focus that's actually harder than the face-to-face approach for me. And although communication is key, I think reducing video calls, especially when it comes to work meetings is something I'd like to be enforced more often. And I'm learning to say "no" to more video meetings. Does anyone else agree that their brain isn't wired for full-time video zooms and then full-time social life catchup zooms? Would love to hear everyone's thoughts!

Join the conversation...

Erin Howard-Reid

318

Career Counselor

05/19/20 at 8:40PM UTC

The first thing I learned when I got my MBTI certification is that extraversion isn't purely about being social - it involves being engaged with the entire world outside of ourselves. This includes taking in different sights, sounds and even smells. It also gives introverts a slight advantage when an annoying noise or song is being played or a weird smell appears - they can ignore the outer world more easily because their inner world is their go-to space. Extraverts tend to notice sounds and other things in the outer world more quickly and either enjoy or hate them with much more passion than introverts. (Granted introverts obviously notice the outer world and aren’t immune – it’s just a little less noticeable or bothersome on their end). While Zoom allows communication, it doesn't replace the total atmosphere of in-person meetings and events. So while you’re communicating, you’re not experiencing the same meeting that would happen face to face. It’s kind of like going to a restaurant when you’re starving and only eating the appetizer. It’s better than no food at all, but after a while you can only handle so many mozzarella sticks when you really want your steak. Even though Zoom has been a Godsend to work from home, it’s not as extravert-friendly as it appears. In fact, introverts might thrive on it better because they can zone-into their inner world while still appearing present on camera. Extraverts also tend to talk their thoughts/ideas out loud before coming to a conclusion, so Zoom can be totally disruptive when multiple people try to talk at once.

Christen Ng

Leader of tech & analytics to fuel social impact

05/23/20 at 11:55PM UTC

As an introvert, zoom fatigue is real. I actually thrive more during in-person meetings and feel more effective. Back to back zooms all day zap my energy quickly as I feel I need to be even more present.

Erin Howard-Reid

318

Career Counselor

05/26/20 at 9:22PM UTC

Welli it might just be that Zoom zaps all energy then :) One thing it could be too - is all of us use both introversion and extraversion and don't always hate our opposite preference. It could mean you prefer extraversion in some situations, even though in the majority you prefer introversion. Just food for thought and I can philosophize all day :)

Krista Coutts

336

Marketing Professional, Cross-Functional Leader

05/19/20 at 6:53PM UTC

This is such a great question! I am a total extrovert...and was really excited about various zoom calls! But on some days it is way too much! The environment is so different than in person meetings...(you see yourself the entire time)! Zoom meetings require much more of your attention and energy! Suggestion...take a quick walk outside to clear your head!

Allyson Drucker

Writer, teacher, researcher eager to relocate

05/14/20 at 10:05PM UTC

I completely agree!! Even the good video meetings, even the social calls, have become a challenge. I wonder if being "on" while at home is confusing to our wiring or our old habits. I think we all put on a public persona when we leave the house, and, it is difficult to find and sustain that public persona while at home. Love that you are saying "no" more. I am, too. I think it's important and self-aware. And then, I feel much more connected when I am on a video call.