The Power of Introverts!
Introverts are so commonly labeled as shy and socially awkward. Yet so many of us have incredible social skills, are confident, assertive, and even come off as outgoing. We have the ability to put the mask of an extrovert on when needed. The real difference between us introverts and extroverts is that our energy is drained, not gained, by overwhelming and overstimulating situations. But this does not mean we are incapable of doing any of things that are so commonly categorized as an extroverted task. I loved the point that Susan made about introverts being better suited for leadership rolls, even though we are quite often passed over. Introverts tend to be very careful and less likely to take outside risks. Research has proven that we are more likely to deliver better outcomes, because we more easily let employees run with their own ideas. Extroverts can be overpowering so others ideas may not as easily “bubble up to the surface” (Cain, 2012). I have always had a pretty good understanding of the true definition of an introvert because I am one, but hearing the positive traits, and strengths being discussed by Susan was wonderful to hear.
Susan’s three calls for actions for a world that revolves around extrovert were fantastic. STOP the madness for constant group work! I couldn’t agree more. Not every personality works well and thrives in group work situations. Yes, we need to teach the skills of working in a team based atmosphere, but the ability to work alone is just as important. We need to embrace our inner self. People need to take the time more often to “unplug”, and disconnect from the chaos of the world and get inside their own heads. I loved this point. The world has become so small and so connected, people are constantly head down, face in their phones. We need to focus on our own inner thoughts, embrace them and let them out. Introverts have so much to offer, and if the world was not so revolved around the characteristics of an extrovert, we could really flourish. Introverts are not the problem, we are the solution.