How To Know If You're an Introvert... Understanding Yourself and People at Work
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Shy, quiet, reserved - these are fairly common perceptions that people have towards introverts.
However, not all introverts are those who choose to stick to the corner of the room fiddling with their phones in a crowded party. Introverts might very well be great communicators and are the social butterflies of the group too.
Sadly, introverts are frequently misunderstood. Which is why it is time to debunk some of the myths and set straight some of the facts about them.
Myth: Introversion equals social anxiety and shyness.
As a self-proclaimed introvert myself, I can assure you that this is not the case. In fact, this is the biggest misconception about introverts leading most people to think that introverts face challenges with social skills. I'm living proof that this is a myth - if it was true, I would not have been successful in the corporate world and as a career coach, where my line of work involves interacting and coaching clients on a day-to-day basis.
Fact: Being around a lot of people drains an introvert's energy.
The social interaction capacity of introverts operates like a battery where it drains quickly after a day of being around people. They get extremely exhausted after a day of socialising, be it in the office or at gatherings. It's all about how an introvert spends their energy.
Myth: Introverts dislike spending time with others.
Just because we get tired from socialising, it does not mean that we hate being around people! But because we spend a lot of energy in group settings, we prefer being around a close-knit group and even better, in a one-on-one conversation.
Fact: Time alone is needed to recuperate.
Introverts often enjoy time to themselves, whether it is eating alone or winding down after a long day of work. It gives them the opportunity to recuperate and regenerate the energy that had been expanded after being around people. Again, it's all about how an introvert spends and replenishes their energy for another exciting day tomorrow!
Myth: Introverts dislike having a lot of friends.
Not true. They just tend to feel more comfortable with their small tight-knit circles and can express themselves better around them. Unfortunately, there are some negative perceptions about introverts in this respect and causing introverts to feel alienated at the workplace, at times.
Fact: Too much stimulation can easily distract an introvert's focus.
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Many introverts do struggle with this, especially the younger ones. It is why they prefer time alone or staying at home to avoid having too much going on in their lives. Peace and quiet allow the introvert to retreat into their inner selves (and inner shell) for much-needed retrospection and reflection time. Just so you know, introverts have a very colourful inner world!
Fact: Self-awareness is a strong trait amongst introverts.
There is a higher chance of introverts developing self-awareness because of their natural way of looking at life from an inward perspective. Time spent reflecting will allow them exposure to learning and exploring new interests. Learning more about themselves counts as one too.
Fact: Observing is an introvert’s thing.
If you are an introvert, you are a very sharp observer and you enjoy learning by watching others. I, personally, resonate with this - I can tell a lot about a person within the first ten minutes of our conversation just by observing the way they converse and by listening to them. Introverts tend to develop this skill so, my advice is to utilise it to your advantage because it can help you in your career!
At the end of the day, it is important to note that there is no one size fits all. While most introverts will resonate with and portray these characteristics to a certain extent, the more you grow and gain more experiences in life, the extent of your introversion may change too.
That's completely okay!
Introversion is your superpower - not a drawback.
Don't get it twisted.
So, take the time to reflect on your own personality and how it can positively impact your personal and professional life!
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Remember...
Hope is not a strategy, and that confidence comes from competence.
Inspiring your career growth in 3-2-1!
— Mei Phing
⮕ Grow your career with clarity & confidence!
⮕ Download my FREE “5-Day Career Growth Guide” today! 🚀