Yes, I am careful and cautious. Too much external stimulation from outside sources drain me (animated co-workers, office parties, social functions, etc.). So I tend not to do them very much, if at all, but sometimes it can be hard, especially if at work. I watch my mouth and what I say, though if I am comfortable in my surroundings and who I'm with, I can be more engaging.

Yes, because I pick and choose how and where to expend my energy. I get easily overwhelmed if I socialize too much. But if I'm somewhere where I'm feeling comfortable and relaxed, I never want to leave.

For me it depends. I am cautious in unfamiliar settings or new situations. I listen mostly and speak rarely. But in familiar settings or situations, I can bravely speak my truth.

I am careful with what I say to other people. I have been betrayed and burned too many times by people I thought I could trust.

Yes but it's really just self protection ?

"Introversion is the state of being predominantly interested in one's own mental self. Introverts are typically perceived as more reserved or reflective. Some popular psychologists have characterized introverts as people whose energy tends to expand through reflection and dwindle during interaction." -- Wikipedia

Wikipedia doesn't discuss careful and cautious as characteristics of introversion. I would expect someone who is fearful to be careful, cautious and quiet, and the level of fear a person feels is thought to be greater in those with a large amygdala.

it goes with the territory

I think as introverts we often find we have to build a kind of shell around ourselves to avoid being damaged by the extroverts bouncing around out there. We look around carefully before emerging from our shell and that makes us seem perhaps more cautious than we could be if the world was kinder to us.

Yes, fairly cautious most of the time, but too direct sometimes and taken to be rude or arrogant. I keep working on my people skills but it doesn't come naturally.

I didn't realize being an introvert had anything to do with it. I thought I was just deeply flawed because I didn't easily trust people. Now I know I am deeply flawed for other reasons, too, but I guess being an introvert could be part of it. Who knew?

yes, very careful lol

Yes, of course.

Oh yes. Especially when it comes to a potential relationship. I'm learning to just be out there and be myself.