What does it really mean to be an introvert?

I tell my story of being an introvert a lot because, well honestly it's a major defining characteristic for me. It's also helpful that I explain that to people because I've found that things I do can be misconstrued if I don't explain myself. I've had people call me unfriendly, or believe I don't like them, so explaining my introversion ahead of time allows them to have an understanding of what they can expect from interacting with me before they start making judgements. 

I really believe that introversion is still one of the most misunderstood personal characteristics there is. When I tell people I'm an introvert they'll actually say things like "no, don't say things like that about yourself." This leads me to believe they see it as an affliction rather than a personality characteristic. 

Being introverted means I get tired of interacting with people after a while. It's nothing personal, but I just want some alone time. I don't require much at all to be content, so I view it as a positive. I've met extreme extroverts who say that they feel depressed when they can't be around people for extended periods of time. I'd say that's something I'm glad I don't have to deal with. 

Introversion is not the same as being quiet or shy, although they are often put in the same bucket.

• Quiet people just prefer not to talk. They could be very extroverted and get their energy from spending lots of time with other people, but they might be the person who doesn't offer much to the conversation. You might forget they're there, but they never miss a party. 
• Shy people are self-conscious. These folks want to be involved, but they likely believe that others are always watching and judging them. They're often guilty of the spotlight effect where they believe that everyone sees their personal flaws. This makes them wary of crowds and prefer time alone where they can be safe from the persecution they believe other people bring to their lives. 
• Introverted people renew their energy with alone time. The introvert in your peer group is the one who spends lots of time in personal reflection, possibly blogs or reads a lot, and only visits parties long enough to make an impression and then get back to their personal time. 

Are you curious if you're an introvert? Here's an easy Meyer's Briggs Type Indicator test you can take for free to find out. 
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To learn more about some of the memorable introverts of history pick up the book "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a Word that Can't Stop Talking."