I AM AN INTROVERT. When I finally figured it out, it was like I had found the missing piece to the complicated puzzle that was my life. My entire perspective changed with that realization. And my true self was revealed to me in a very real and humbling way. It was an awakening of sorts. And to tell you the truth, it was long overdue! Oh, how sweet was that first taste of freedom; freedom from thoughts of not belonging or being strange and different in the eyes of an ever-scrutinizing world. And so, as an advocate and voice for my fellow introverts, I want to share with you just why introverts are awesome.
Chances are you probably know a few introverts yourself. I admit some of us are kind of easy to pick out sometimes. Maybe you know a few people you would never have guessed were introverts. We are a diversified bunch, for sure. But a few qualities make us introverts to the core.
If you think you are an introvert, I recommend doing a quiz to determine where you fall on the introvert/extrovert spectrum. There are many lengthy ones out there; you can certainly do them if you like. But I prefer ones that are short and sweet.
Here's why introverts are awesome
1. Introverts don't need to be constantly entertained in a social setting
To tell you the truth, I don't even need to be entertained most of the time! In a social setting, I am quite content finding a quiet spot and checking out the scene from a distance. I may understandably appear as a loner. But I'm not opposed to chatting with anyone. In fact, I often enjoy it. But if no one ever approached me, I'd be okay in my own little world. That's one less person that the host has to worry about entertaining!
2. Introverts thrive when they are alone
I have spent some of the best moments of my life by myself. My family and my friends mean the world to me. I cherish every moment I have with them, but I also value the time I spend with myself. Extroverts often find themselves bored and unproductive during alone time. In fact, aloneness is often wrongfully equated with idleness. Introverts, however, use the opportunity to improve themselves in different ways.
I dare say that quotes about idleness ("to pass time without doing anything" as defined in freedictionary.com) can be somewhat inaccurate. For instance, I couldn't disagree more with, "Success operates in active moments and not in idleness." - Oscar Bimpong, because success here is defined in terms of actively doing things to achieve wealth and status as determined by the world around us. But can't success also be defined as self-growth, self-empowerment, self-realization, and self-determination? After all, success itself may be elusive if one doesn't achieve any of these. And what better time to accomplish these things than in the time you spend with yourself, alone and "idle" but equipped with mindfulness and resolve?
More reasons.....
3. Introverts can be easy on the wallet
My idea of a good time is getting cozy with a good book beside the trees or when it raining. That's the truth. And I'll say it loud and proud! While I'm not opposed to occasional outings, I am definitely in my happy place at home.
4. An introvert is less likely to cause hurt feelings in an argument
I believe one of the most extraordinary qualities of introverts is their ability to stop and think before speaking. Needless to say, in an argument, this is EVERYTHING! Ambrose Bierce's quote aptly says, "Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret." Oh, how true this is! Stopping to think gives perspective. It provides the opportunity to analyze facts and make a good and fair case. In this way, feelings are less likely to get hurt.
Just a few more pertinent points
5. Introverts are genuine, loyal friends with whom you can really connect
Most introverts have a few close friends instead of many friends. Quality of friendships definitely trumps quantity for the introvert. For me, it has always been a matter of "clicking" or not. It may sound superficial. But if it takes too much work and effort to get to know someone, I'm probably not going to let that person into my guarded world.
The "clicking" is sort of instant, effortless, and exciting. The conversations usually include little to no small talk. The topic is usually something of substance that is important to all parties involved. In that way, a deep connection is born. It takes a lot for an introvert to share their inner thoughts. They will, in turn, value your thoughts and opinions and closely guard any secrets you have chosen to share.
6. Introverts can be highly productive and valuable in the workplace
Introverts are always observing different aspects of their environment. As a result, they tend to be quick learners. They easily adapt to different situations. The desire to be alone rather than socialize is also useful since less time is spent socializing. Productivity therefore increases. Also, because introverts are great at establishing meaningful connections, they form strong bonds with coworkers. This will also lead to more productivity and cohesiveness in the workplace.Self-awareness breeds confidence
Being as introspective as I am sometimes feels like a curse. But believe me; it truly is a gift. And I accept it with open arms. Being self-aware means being completely in tune with who you are as an individual. I am constantly examining experiences in my life before they happen, during the actual event, and after. Examining my interactions with people and how I react in different situations is my superpower.
I thoroughly examine my faults. And even if those are hard to own up to at times, I am aware of their existence and the unique ways that they affect my being. Knowledge is power. And I acknowledge that I am not perfect. Because of this gift, I am less impulsive and better equipped to make decisions. I am confident not only in who I am but in the decisions I make in my daily life
