Are you an introvert looking for ways to thrive in a world that often seems geared toward extroverts? You’re not alone. Recent studies have shown that roughly 30 percent of the population identifies as introverted, yet many still feel that society doesn’t quite understand them. It’s time to change the way we look at living introverted and provide empowerment and encouragement so everyone can live their best life – introvert or extrovert.
There is nothing fundamentally better about being either introverted or extroverted. However remember the old saying about doing unto others – if you want people to understand and respect your introversion, you owe it to extroverts to understand and respect them. If you’re looking for a way to navigate life as an introvert, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started.
Do:
👉🏿Understand and respect your needs as an introvert. That’s the key to living a happy quiet life.
👉🏿Create a balance between social spaces and private ones. Learn to manage your calendar to avoid being either isolated or overtaxed
👉🏿Make plans well in advance and if you want input from others ask for it in writing. This will give introverts time to formulate their thoughts and summon the courage to share them. If it’s the planner who is an introvert they won’t be expected to call people about late submissions but can continue communications in a digital format.
👉🏿Allow people to work the way they need to; extroverts should feel comfortable taking time to socialize, while introverts should be allowed to work remotely or take breaks from the team when they need to.
👉🏿Ask friends and family to text before they call. Many introverts don’t like receiving unexpected phone calls. If work requires you to make calls try scheduling them for a certain time during the day so you’ll have time to mentally prepare.
Don’t:
👉🏿Don’t assume you know all you need to about introversion and extroversion — make an effort to learn about how personality impacts work preferences and styles
👉🏿Don’t back out at the last minute too often. Now and then you’ll need to for your mental wellness, but try not to be that person who says yes to everything and just doesn’t show up. That’s a sure way to lose friends
👉🏿Don’t overload your team with meetings; give colleagues lots of uninterrupted work time during the day
👉🏿Don’t make friends do all the reaching out, and don’t assume they will be there even if you don’t put as much effort into the friendship. It requires more effort for us introverts but we can do it.
👉🏿Don’t let more dominant personalities do all the talking; encourage them to reflect, listen and give others a chance to express their thoughts as well
Conclusion
I’ve been an introvert all my life and it caused me my share of trouble as I struggled to understand myself and find my strengths. It took me many years to comprehend and accept that there isn’t anything wrong with me, it’s just who I am. With these dos and don’ts in mind, every introvert is sure to reach their personal best and bring out their shining inner light. As the ancient philosopher Aristotle once said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Introverts have gifts that are just waiting to be unleashed—it’s time to take the lead and have the confidence to share them with the world.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Drop your answer in the comments along with your best piece of advice for others like you. Have an amazing day!!




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