World Introvert Day
All too often, the introverted child is told to ‘become like other children’ – become extroverted. This creates an immediate sense of unworthiness or ‘being wrong’ as an introvert, and that to be acceptable and functional, learning to engage with the world as an extrovert is imperative. There are statistically more extroverts in the world…so what? This doesn’t make them right or better. Anyway, where there is an introvert there is always an extrovert. Where there is the moon there is the sun, right? Opposites exist and all the variables in between are equally important.
An introvert is a person who predominantly is concerned with their own thoughts and feelings rather than with external things. They prefer spending time one on one rather than in large groups or crowds and definitely don’t like small talk.
The Latin origin of the word: Intro – to the inside…Vertere – to turn… Introvertere – turns one’s thoughts inwards (in spiritual contemplation) They seek out and enjoy opportunities for reflection and solitude.
The two personality types of extroverts and introverts first used by Carl Jung in the 1920’s can be described as introverts turning to their own minds to recharge and extroverts seeking out other people for their energy needs. Introverts need quiet to concentrate, are reflective, are self-aware, take time making decisions. They feel comfy being alone, don’t like group work, prefer to write than talk, daydream or imagine how to work through challenge, retreat into their own minds to rest and have very few but close friendships. They turn inward developing a high level of self-sufficiency.
There are many misconceptions about introverts: they are antisocial, shy, unfriendly, bad at public speaking and lonely. But being an introvert can be an asset: when they recharge their batteries from spending time alone, they can go out into the world and connect well with people because they take far longer to understand and process ideas before moving on. They are brilliant objective listeners, they think before they speak, choosing their words carefully and therefore have a higher impact with their communication, they are incredibly observant because they notice everything, enabling them to read a room, noticing body language, facial expressions and what people are not saying. They allow time to really connect with people making them thoughtful networkers, friends and romantic partners. This also makes them great leaders and teachers. Once an introvert has gathered all of their information, they use what they have learned to help their team be more efficient, effective and happier.
The best teacher or leader is often an introvert because they value individuality, extending their appreciation to their students/audience and understanding and accepting each student’s unique beauty and wellness, respecting diverse needs and goals. They problem solve, listen, show empathy, focus and persist more than most. They are usually emotionally and intellectually self sufficient.
“When my client has learned to answer their own questions, my job is done”.
Need to know more? WhatsApp on +27823740940 or email on barbara@barbarascogings.com to book a complimentary 20-minute session to discuss this in more detail.