Stop Using “Introvert” as an Excuse

Have you noticed something about people nowadays?

They love to label themselves.

“I’m an introvert, that’s why I don’t like small talk.”

“I’m just not built for making new friends.”

“Extroverts are naturally more outgoing; we introverts just can’t do it.”

Eh, really meh? Or are you just using "introvert" as a nicer way to cover up your fear?

Let’s get real: the biggest difference between an introvert and an extrovert isn’t about being brave, good at talking, or being the life of the party. It’s simply about how you recharge. Extroverts feel energised when they spend time with people. Introverts, on the other hand, recharge by being alone.

That’s it. Full stop.

Nothing to do with how good your “blow water” (small talk) skill is.

Nothing to do with whether you dare to speak up.

If you struggle with conversations, it’s not because you’re introverted.

It’s because you’re scared — and untrained.

Blowing water is a skill, not a born-talent.

And just like any other skill, it can be learned, polished, and mastered.

Nobody comes out of the womb ready to host a TED talk or entertain a crowd. It’s something you build, one awkward conversation at a time.

Let’s be honest for a second:

Most of the time when people say, “I’m introverted, so I’m not good at talking,” what they really mean is:

• “I’m scared of being awkward.”
• “I’m scared of saying something wrong.”
• “I’m scared of being judged.”
• “I’m scared people will think I’m lame.”

And you know what? That’s perfectly normal. Fear of social judgment is real. Everybody feels it — even the so-called "extroverts" you admire. But the difference is, they don't let that fear define them. They mess up, they learn, they move on.

Meanwhile, too many people today choose to hide behind the word "introvert" like it’s some kind of shield.

A badge to say, “I don’t have to try.”

An excuse to stay comfortable.

But when you do that, you’re not respecting your personality — you’re limiting your potential.

You owe it to yourself to admit it:

You’re not bad at talking.

You’re just scared.

And that’s okay.

Because once you stop hiding, you can start learning.

You can start improving.

Start small:

• Smile at a stranger.
• Say "good morning" to your colleague.
• Compliment someone’s shoes.
• Make a simple comment about the weather, like "Wah, today weather hot hor."

These small moves are how you train your “talking muscle.”

You’re not going to be smooth overnight, but each tiny attempt makes the next one easier.

Each time you survive an awkward moment (and trust me, you will), you grow.

And here’s the beautiful part:

You can still be an introvert.

You can still love your alone time.

You can still recharge by being with yourself.

But you don’t have to limit your life because of it.

You are allowed to be both:

• Someone who treasures solitude and someone who knows how to connect with people when needed.
• Someone who isn’t naturally loud, but still brave enough to say hello.

Introversion isn’t a prison. It’s just one part of who you are.

So next time you’re tempted to say, "I’m introverted, so I don’t like talking," ask yourself:

Is it really because of your personality?

Or is it fear dressed up as identity?

If it’s fear, be proud to say:

"I’m scared, but I’m learning."

Because courage isn’t about being fearless.

It’s about being scared — and doing it anyway.

Stop labelling yourself to feel safe.

Start growing yourself to feel proud.

You’re better than a label.

You’re a work in progress — and that's way cooler.