Appears to me there are many varieties/combinations/levels of introversion, social anxiety and shyness. In my case, for example, I am not shy, definitely an introvert, and have some social anxiety. From some of the other responses seen here, there are others who understand the differences. I still hear unknowing comments from others who say things like, "My son is not an introvert; he's not shy at all," as though introversion is a disease we don't want loved ones to have.

I agree with your every word and I am not shy. I might talk you to death but I am also an introvert. I prefer my own company most of the time when not working because I have to have time for myself. Some people live life like a sit-com movie but I am not one of them.

There's several kinds of introversion and some introverts are not socially anxious at all.

Definitely not the same. I don't have social anxiety, I simply prefer the company of animals and trees to that of most people. I have zero need for social interaction with random people, but I do enjoy interaction with interesting, intelligent people...sadly I can count the number of those in this area on fingers and toes without taking my shoes off.

I’m not sure I think shy and introvert are the same. Very often we become introverted due to factors that happen in our life and can occur at any age. Shyness is a phase we go through at various times for most people, though foe some it is a lifelong struggle. I am an introvert because I got tired of dealing with people’s bullshit. I am not shy, if I am with a person I can feel comfortable with or even a group, I can be quite outgoing.