I’ve posted on here several times about introverts. Since I am one, I have a special interest in understanding what that means and helping others understand it.
More than once as a child comments have been made about how quiet I can be. I remember one guy saying as I sat quietly in the back while everyone else chatted and fooled around, “y’know it kind of scares me when someone is that quiet. You never know what’s going on in their brain.” Still waters run deep, my friend.
I have learned over the years to be more “extroverted” so I get less comments about my quietness – and adults tend to be more “polite” and not say anything. The fact is, I still tend to be the person who sits back and observes. I can stand out due to confidence level, my size, my bright clothes, jewelry and pink hair. I like to draw focus. And still, at my core, I am more reflective. I am an introvert.
My niece recently graduated High School. My sisters, mom and I went to her grad. At the family BBQ the next day, the difference in my family of the introverts and extroverts were apparent. My mom, who has Chronic Fatigue Syndrome was worried about getting through the day because of her energy level. She’s also an extrovert. We ended up being the last ones to leave as she was having such a great time chatting with everyone. I, the introvert, on the other hand, was exhausted!
Society is hard on introverts. Extroverts get more promotions, more attention, more respect. We are expected to work mainly in groups in school and work. The quiet are looked at askance like we have some sort of problem or social disease.
Introverts have made incredible contributions to society. Ghandi, Elenor Roosevelt, Steve Wozniak (Apple) and so many more are/were introverts.
Susan Cain, writer of Quiet – The Power of Introverts said, “the best talker does not necessarily have the best ideas.” I love that!
Everyone has some introvert and extrovert in them. Most lean more one way or the other. For example, I love to play and have fun. It does have to be on my terms and sometimes it takes me a little time to warm up. When I’m ready to go, though, look out! I can be the driving force and the life of the party. I love to speak and act and perform. From the stage, everyone thinks I’m an extrovert. That is my element. When I get off the stage, I will generally be quieter. When I’m done performing, I usually need alone time. I would say I’m probably about 60/40 introvert/extrovert.
If you are mostly an introvert, enjoy your quiet time. Respect your deep thoughts and ideas. Go out and enjoy the company of others on your terms. Love and enjoy the extroverts in your life and allow them to teach you how to come out of yourself.
If you are mostly an extrovert, enjoy your group activities. Be social, have fun. Take time to stop and reflect from time to time as well. Love and enjoy the introverts in your life and allow them to teach you to be quiet.
Susan Cain has a Ted Talk that includes a lot of what I’m talking about here. Take 20 minutes and enjoy her insights.
Have a PURRfect day!
Christie Mawer – The Bad Kitty
thebadkittyis@gmail.com