Tips To Make Your Introversion Work For You

Are you an introvert who thinks your reserved nature is a character flaw? Stop. It’s far from it. Here’s how you can use your introversion to your advantage.

- Stephanie Sharon Koh

Contrary to popular belief, introverts aren’t antisocial, inhibited, or lonely. They just react and function differently from their more gregarious counterparts. Also, introverts aren’t necessarily shy, because while shyness is the fear of social judgment, introversion is more about how a person responds to social stimulation.

It can be an asset

But just why is introversion viewed as a shortcoming in our society? Why do introverts usually get passed over for leadership positions at work? It’s because there’s an expectation to be more assertive and to speak up in school and the workplace.

Thankfully, this rather outdated mindset is slowly beginning to change, with more and more people recognising the positive aspects of a quiet personality.

In The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength, the author Dr. Jennifer Kahnweiler explains that introverts get their energy from alone time. This is where they recharge their batteries before going out into the world and connecting with people. On the other hand, extroverts derive energy from being surrounded by people. Introverts are generally also excellent listeners, have great concentration, and think before they speak—which are all important qualities in the workplace or social situations.

Use it to your advantage