Being an introvert is a good thing
# “Why are you so quiet?”
Growing up you might have heard this question and always left you baffled. You might have often felt that many people didn’t understand you.
There are many challenges and stigma around introversion and seem like this personality itself is a big challenge in our lives. But, you might find it interesting to know that you are not alone with this experience and feeling. And, everyone has their own personality. Unique and different! Introversion is also a type of personality that you may have.
There is nothing wrong with being a quieter or reflective person.
# I can socialize quite easily and don't mind to speak in front but it drains me. I can only spend so much time and then need to be alone or in nature to recharge.
# Understanding Introversion
What’s wrong with you?
Why are you so quiet?
Why don’t you talk more?
You should get out of your shell more.
You should go out more.
You should just say something?
If you are an introvert, you have likely heard these types of statements directed at you all of your life. Introversion isn't the same as being shy or socially anxious. Rather, it is a personality type in which one is more comfortable focusing on listening, deep talk, reading and spending some time alone than external stimuli.
Introverts feel more energetic when they spend their time alone or with a few people they are comfortable with over large crowds. And, it is totally okay.
# I think that learning to set and maintain boundaries with others has been a very important part of my life as an introvert. I live in a family of rowdy extroverts, and a few narcissists. So learning how to tell people what I need, and to keep them from crossing into my lane, has been crucial. For example, I have a job where I spend all day with people. It's great, but I'm drained when I'm done. I've learned to tell my family that I need an hour when I get home to recharge my batteries. For the most part, they've learned to be respectful of that.
# The thing about introverts is that we can be quiet but if you ask our views on the topics we are passionate about or know a lot about, we have a lot to say and share.
# I have found quietness is very important for my introverted brain. No matter how busy I am, I make sure I have some quiet moments every day to journal or sit quietly.
# Embrace your Strengths
As per different researches, studies and observations, it is agreed that introverts have some great qualities that stand them apart from others. Like, they are:
- They are rational thinkers when it comes to making choices and decision-making. They critically think and focus on all aspects before picking a choice.
- They are active and focused listeners. They attentively listen and observe what others have to say or share.
- They own the presence in the room when they talk because when they share anything, they have something interesting to say which draws everyone’s attention.
- They do not brag or exaggerate about their abilities and prefer to be more grounded. It doesn’t mean that extroverts brag about their abilities. But introverts are more open to new ideas and thoughts to consider and give a thought.
- They are focused and manage the uncertainty well to find a solution to a problem.
- They enjoy to work alone and it allows them to use their time wisely and focus on getting work done.
Every introvert has their own qualities and strengths but the above points sum up them well.
# Being an introvert is a good thing
Here is a video on being introverted is a good thing. Watch it!
# Our personality is not like a box but more of clay. You can shape it the way you want to. You can stretch it, mold it and evolve into something different than earlier. Every day, when you work on improving yourself, you become a better version of yourself.
# The Challenge of Social Interaction
If something is asked or discussed with introverts, they take time to pause, think and then respond to it. The time span to complete this process could be a bit longer compared to extroverts. Introverts need some pause and space to formulate and shape their thoughts before they respond.
Because of these rhythm differences, it makes sense why introverts seem like shy people or not interested in a discussion from a third person perspective but it is a matter of flow.
This is why in fast paced environments, introverts are more likely to remain silent. But if they are required to speak up, it leads to stress and anxiety for them and they find the speaking challenging.
So as an introvert, it is important that you understand and acknowledge how you are different. And it is okay to be different. All you need is to start responding differently instead of feeling stressed or anxious.
For example, you can use your body language to send signals to other people you are listening to and thinking about it. If you are in text based communication, you can use certain phrases like, “Thinking”, “Hmm”, “Nods”, “Yes”, etc. These small gestures allow one to have a better hold on the conversation.
Also, another fact that needs to be recognized is that apart from the rhythm, it is the group dynamics too that affect the introverts' interaction abilities. For example, in a new group setting, introverts may tend to stay quiet because they are still getting adjusted to the new environment and comfortable around new people. So, in a new group, introverts can handle the situation by letting others know about how they are feeling or just letting them be aware that you are happy to listen and will share when you have something to say or share.
# The best teams are made of Introverts and Extroverts working together. An Introvert is more likely to be skilled in assessing a situation where an Extrovert is more likely to be skilled in implementing a plan based on the Introvert’s observations.
Walk the Complete “Embrace Your Inner Introvert” Path here