Extroverts are known for being outgoing and sociable, and they can usually be found smack-dab at the centre of conversations.
They tend to be good storytellers, and they always have a lot to say, which makes them super engaging — and maybe slightly overwhelming for the more introverted among us. So, why exactly do extroverts talk so much? Here are a few possible explanations.
1. They process their thoughts through verbal expression.
For many extroverts, speaking out loud is an important part of their thought process. They tend to clarify and develop their ideas as they’re speaking, so they use conversation as a problem-solving and decision-making tool, if you will. Of course, this often means lengthy discussions as they work through it all…
2. Socialising energises them.
Unlike introverts who may find social interactions draining, extroverts typically feel more energetic when interacting with other people. Conversation acts as a source of stimulation and excitement, encouraging them to continue talking as a means of maintaining this positive energy boost.
3. They have a strong desire to connect with people.
Extroverts often see talking as the method of building and maintaining relationships. Their chattiness is usually driven by a genuine interest in other people and a desire to form meaningful connections through shared experiences. In other words, their hearts are in the right place!
4. Silence makes them uncomfortable.
Many extroverts find silence in social situations really awkward. They may feel compelled to fill these quiet moments with conversation, even if it means discussing pointless topics or repeating stories, to maintain a sense of social comfort.
5. They enjoy being the centre of attention.
Some extroverts thrive on being in the spotlight. Talking allows them to command attention and showcase their knowledge, experiences, or wit. This desire for recognition is often behind their tendency to dominate conversations.
6. They have a fear of missing out.
They worry about missing important information or elements of a social interaction, so they make sure to insert themselves whenever they can. It’s important that they’re always in the loop in social situations, and they tend to get very anxious if they’re not.
7. They use talking as a way to explore and learn.
For many extroverts, talking is a great way to gather info and explore new ideas. They may ask lots of questions or share their own knowledge extensively (often to a somewhat irritating degree) as a way of expanding their understanding of the world around them.
8. They have a natural enthusiasm for sharing.
Rather than being narcissistic or self-centred, a lot of extroverts are just genuinely excited about sharing their thoughts, experiences, and feelings with other people. Because of this, they often subject people to lengthy storytelling sessions or detailed explanations. It’s all about sharing their passion with anyone who will listen.
9. They struggle with internal reflection.
While introverts may prefer to reflect (read: often overanalyse!) internally before speaking, extroverts tend to be the opposite. Instead, they may use conversation as a means of working through their feelings and ideas instead of figuring that out beforehand.
10. They use talking as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety.
Talking can serve as a distraction from negative feelings or a means of looking for reassurance and support from other people when they’re in a bad place or struggling with a particular issue.
11. They have a heightened awareness of social cues.
Extroverts are often highly attuned to social dynamics and may use talking a lot as a way to navigate these situations. They might adjust their conversation style or topics based on the reactions they receive, leading to more verbal interactions as they gauge and respond to social cues.
12. They have a strong need for external validation.
For some extroverts, talking serves as a means of trying to earn approval or validation from the people around them. By sharing their thoughts and experiences, they may be looking for positive feedback or agreement, which can encourage them to continue speaking.
13. They have a wealth of social experiences to share.
Due to their outgoing nature, extroverts often accumulate a wide range of social experiences. This vast repertoire of stories, anecdotes, and observations provides them with ample material for conversation, which naturally makes them a bit more talkative.
14. They use conversation to organise their thoughts.
Many extroverts find that talking helps them structure their ideas and memories. By vocalising their thoughts, they can better organise and make sense of information, which can lead to extended periods of speech as they work through complex ideas or situations.
15. They have a lower threshold for external stimulation.
Extroverts typically require more external stimulation to feel engaged and alert. Talking provides a consistent source of this needed stimulation, encouraging them to continue conversing to maintain their preferred level of mental arousal and engagement with their environment.
