You probably won’t find this shocking, but I’m a bona fide introvert.
Many writers are. The quiet, solitary nature of writing appeals to introverts.
I have often referred to myself as an introvert masquerading as an extrovert. The feeling that, as an introvert, I must conform to a more extroverted personality in order to succeed, is a belief that many introverts hold.
Yet, it simply isn’t true.
As introverts, we have strengths which we can leverage. We need to recognize this and stop feeling guilty and apologetic about our natural temperament.
Recently, I’ve seen some pretty awesome info online about introverts. There was this enlightening, thoughtful post that dispels ten myths about introverts. For instance, we don’t dislike people and don’t always want to be alone. However, we draw our energy from within and need some quiet downtime to recharge our batteries. When we’re not allowed that–or are made to feel guilty about it–we can turn into a Ms. Cranky Pants of a magnitude you never, ever want to witness.
Trust me on that.
On the other hand, give us a little fair warning about a social event and some time to recharge before and after the event, and we can be the life of the party. You won’t be able to shut me us up.
Then there was this awesomesauce post on Buzz Feed about 27 Problems Only Introverts understand, which is hilarious, mostly because it’s also quite true.
Today I finally got a chance to watch a video by the funny, insightful and always inspiring, Marie Forleo, over on MarieTV. Networking for Introverts with Susan Cain. I love Marie’s videos! She shares information, encouragement and resources that help entrepreneurs make money and live a life they love. The advice and observations she shares are usually applicable to creative professionals, too.
Susan Cain is the author of the award-winning book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. This video discussion between Susan and Marie highlights five fantastic tips to help introverts cope in a world where they seldom feel appreciated. Not to mention the comfort that comes from knowing you aren’t alone (or an anti-social freak). The video is lengthy at a little over 20 minutes. However, it’s well worth it for introverts and the people who love them, but who don’t always get them.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What challenges have you faced either being an introvert or in dealing with people who are? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below.
Photo of Susan Cain courtesy of the American Library Association. Some rights reserved.
I spent over 20 years administering and interpreting the MBTI (Myers Briggs) on which the concept of introversion is conceived. Fortunately, although like many writers, a strong introvert, I’m not a shy one. I had to admit I never can quite find that comfort zone when I’m in front of people, but I’m getting better.
Not a fan of public speaking, but I keep working on it. Like you, I’m not afraid to speak with people. I do find situations like networking events intimidating. Being part of local writers’ groups has definitely helped in this respect. I enjoy socializing in a more intimate group, but I tend to feel lost in a larger crowd, especially if I’m there alone.
I am a total introvert. I am really shy and I have a hard time around really large crowds of people. I would rather be by myself than in a crowded room. I am a deep thinker. I have always been this way since I was a kid.
Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your experience, Chineka! It seems the majority of writers are introverts. I’ve enjoyed my alone time, especially with a good book, for as long as I can remember. I would sometimes get tagged as “anti-social” because I don’t like it when people drop by unannounced. Not true. I love entertaining, but I need to plan for it and time to prepare mentally.
Great topic, Reese. I’m totally and introvert, and I’ve been noticing as I get older I become more and more introverted—Preferring my cozy little shell, and small knit circle over the bustling crowd of the world. Thanks for all the articles and resources you shared in this post. I’ve already clicked on a couple of them. Plus, you already know I love me some Marie Forleo (thanks to you for that). 🙂
It’s been great to see all of this recent info online about introverts that is designed to dispel myths about us. This has often been a point of contention between my extrovert husband and I.