A while ago, I interviewed for an online tutoring job. Throughout it, the interviewer reiterated that I should “be more exaggerated.”
I followed the instructions and wondered why I had to be as animated as the princesses at Disneyworld. I felt lesser and isolated because I pretended to be someone I was not.
In that moment, I realised it’s more desirable to be extroverted than introverted.
Society praises extroverts. They may have more friends and put themselves out there more, reaping more social rewards. It’s designed for extroverts, too. Participation—something loathed by introverts—is usually a large part of school grades.
A study conducted by the University of Toronto concluded extroverts advance in their careers much more quickly than introverts. Even at university, if you decide to stay in rather than go out, you’re judged. This can prevent you from progressing in clubs and other social groups.
We need to learn this crucial lesson: it’s okay, and even beneficial, to be introverted.
I’m an introvert. Introverts prefer calm environments, limited social engagement, and enjoy solitude more than the average person. They may generally keep to themselves, but that doesn’t mean they do not like going out with friends.
The word introvert comes from the phrase “turning inward,” meaning introverts can spend time with others and enjoy it but become energized by being alone.
There are lots of benefits to being an introvert. Introverts may be seen as snobbish or rude because they don’t talk as much, but in reality, they’re just good at listening and processing information. Introverts are also more observant of their environment and the people around them—they have a high level of empathy as a result. Introverts also tend to choose a smaller but higher-quality group of friends, which makes them very loyal.
And, despite popular attitudes to the contrary, introverts can be very successful. There are many famous introverts including Albert Einstein, Meryl Streep, and Audrey Hepburn. These introverts are seen as more creative, as they did not feel the need to ‘follow the crowd.’
As Albert Einstein once said, “the monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.”
A study by the CEO Genome project found that over half the CEOs who performed better than expected were introverts. According to Forbes, introverts are better at listening to their workers and working through tough emotions.
It’s unfortunate society expects us to be loud and expressive when that’s just not who everyone is. The next time someone asks you why you’re so quiet, try asking them why they’re so loud.
Tags
extrovert, introvert, Society, Solitude, Work
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