I love this quote because it is so on point. I am an introvert and proud of it. Studies estimate that on the personality scaling ranging from extreme extroverts to extreme introverts, about a third of us fall in the introvert category.
Psychologist Carl Jung’s defined introverts and extroverts based on where they get their power. An introvert gets charged internally, hence the need to withdraw in solitude to re-energize, while an extrovert gets re energized outwardly, inspired by external stimuli, think out loud and may need the energy of others to process information.
As an introvert, I need time and space to process, occasionally even the simplest requests, questions or situations, which can confuse or frustrate the extroverted inclined male species, that I seem to attract. 🙂 I also dislike networking; crowds (unless it’s a large crowd, then it almost seems like I’m alone because I can easily get lost in a sea of people); small talk (I despise small talk —really I do, plus my mother told me not to talk to strangers. 🙂
Nothing is sweeter than enjoying my own company with a beautiful view, quietly listening to smooth jazz or enjoying the hush of nature in the background. I also greatly appreciate intimate settings where the conversation goes beyond the latest fashion trends, the hottest television shows or which politician got caught in a recent scandal. As a natural listener, I enjoy listening to others, and prefer heart centered talks versus unforgettable mind chatter.
And let me dispel the myth that we introverts are boring or just like to sit around doing nothing (no worries Introverts, I got your back), we are funny, fun, exciting, adventurous and love life. It may sometimes appear differently than the interests of the typical extrovert—not always—but believe me, our internal worlds are rich, full and extremely interesting.
The older, I mean the wiser I get :-), I refuse to spend my time and energy in ways that do not support and edify who I am as an individual. I understand that life is an exchange, a give and take, but I am committed to saying yes to others only if I can do so with ease for me.
In a world of the 24 hours news cycle, increased social media presence, and in a society where the loudest voice versus the most reasoned one gets the attention, an introvert can feel overwhelmed, out of place and feel the need to shrink away from society rather than experiencing a comfortable space within it.
You remember from school– the loudest students, be it the troublemakers or the incessant hand raisers were most noticed and received more attention (whether positive or negative); while the more contemplative, shy or quiet students were often compared to those standards of behaviors and were either ignored or ridiculed.
Thank God for advances in human psychology, which began to examine our biases against certain personality types, differences in how success can and should be measured; that concepts such as “emotional intelligence” “power of vulnerability” and “quiet revolution” were born.
The quiet movement was highlighted by former lawyer and self-professed introvert Susan Cain who argued in her book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, that in a culture where being social and outgoing are prized above all else, it can be difficult, even shameful, to be an introvert.
The quiet revolution of the introvert is rising—even in social media. To date, there are over 75 Facebook groups dedicated to the support of introverts. Why? Because introverts need a space for community, acceptance and a safe space to talk trash about extroverts, of course. (just kidding).
At reginethetravelqueen.com, we have created transformational retreats, with an introvert’s needs in mind, where women can come together and support each other in a nurturing and loving environment and created space for everyone to feel like whole individuals. No pressure, just peace. If you are interested in joining us in our next retreat, get in touch with me and let’s make it happen.
Quiet extroverts are always welcome too :-))
Introverts Unite!