The Introvert Curse

Before you read, I'd like to make a note that this is all coming from my personal experience. Everybody is different and what I may experience as an introvert is likely very different for another introverted person. That being said, please enjoy!

In a world where there is constant chatter, an introvert provides powerful listening and observation skills. There is a misconception that all introverts would rather stay alone all the time and that is where they recharge, however most introverts simply prefer to conserve their energy for meaningful interactions. Many introverts truly desire deep connections instead of countless meaningless interactions.

It's no secret that introverts get a bad name. Inexpressive, too quiet, cold, and disengaged are just a few of the adjectives often overused to describe an introvert. Some common questions and phrases we hear are, "You look like you're bored, are you even having fun?" Or "Are you okay? You look serious." Most of the time we are fine and just observing our world. When we are at our healthiest and in an environment we've deemed safe, we can indeed express ourselves and may even be quite talkative. In fact, introverts are probably full of ideas and creative expressions but in an atmosphere where no one is willing to listen, we can feel suffocated and keep things locked internally.

Just as people need quality time with others, introverts may need more quality time with themselves but even extroverts could benefit from more of that. Introverts need to understand themselves in order to understand their environment. This time to understand one's self does not always need to be completely alone. Sometimes even in a room full of people, an introvert can separate themselves from the surrounding just enough to think for themselves for minute. We can then understand the world around us more efficiently and interact with it better.

Because introverts have attributes that are not necessarily desirable and most people would first choose that outgoing person to talk or want to be like, introverts often feel out of place. No one likes to feel as if they don't belong and everyone likes to feel "seen" or recognized. One struggle introverts have is if someone asks a question in a group setting, the introvert may think of the answer but either be too afraid to speak up or still be finalizing their answer in their head when the extrovert speaks up sooner than them. Introverts are not necessarily people of less words, but our words may stay mostly in our heads, and that isn't a bad thing when we have an outlet to express ourselves. Just because someone doesn't always speak up, does not mean they are cold or do not have input. Take time to listen to everyone's voice.

Both introverts and extroverts contribute in major ways to society and are both needed. While introverts may need less interaction or just more quality interaction, we all need human connection. We all need a sense of belonging and community whether in a big group or one on one. If you yourself have thought of all introverts as cold and unwelcoming, perhaps you need to take some time to get to know an introvert. I promise that if you give us a chance we will add a spark to your lives.

I appreciate you taking time to read this. If you liked what you read please take a moment to like and share with friends and family. Also be sure to check out my profile to see more topics I've written on and if you're feeling generous my tips are always open. Thank you!