Sick of hearing the same things about yourselves? Here are five common myths about introverts – and why they aren’t true
Jesse Zee Photography
As introverts, we become energised in minimal, stimulating environments and focus on our inner world. In other words, we use our time alone to recharge our batteries, discover new thoughts and enjoy solitary activities such as writing and day-dreaming.
Introversion may be one of the most frequently misunderstood personality traits. In fact, there is a common misconception that that introverts are socially awkward, aloof and are generally anti-social.
Well, we say otherwise.
Here are five common myths about introverts – and why they aren’t true.
1) Introverts are shy and don’t like to talk:
Introverts may generally come across as quiet and shy, but it doesn’t mean we don’t like to talk. Instead, we like to listen before opening our mouths and talk about topics we find engaging and relatable.
In fact, being shy and introverted are two completely different things; we just don’t talk for the sake of talking. Don’t get me wrong, It’s not like we’re afraid of people, or think if we talk the whole world will end. We just need a good reason to interact.
2) Introverts don’t like people:
Probably one of the worst myths. Of course we like people! Introverts make great listeners, value a smaller circle of friends and go to intimate gatherings where our personalities can shine.
If you have other friends that are introvert, consider yourself lucky. Taking the quality over quantity approach means we will choose our friends carefully – and stay fiercely loyal to them.
3) Introverts always want to be alone:
Sure, we like to daydream and be comfortable with our own thoughts, but it doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy our friendships and relationships as much as everyone else. Introverts certainly have close friends, but maybe a little less of them.
We thrive on our social skills with the people we know, trust and care about. Low key hanging out and intimate talks with our close friends are never off the agenda; as long as it’s relaxed, casual and low stress, of course.
4) Introverts don’t make good leaders:
It’s most definitely possible to excel and become a good leader as an introvert. Take Bill Gates, for example, the world’s richest man, an influential leader and a self-confessed introvert.
Think about it, introverts are known for thinking things through thoroughly before acting those thoughts out to a crowd. It only makes sense that a lot of great minds are deep thinkers and find self-confidence through passion and ambition.
5) Introverts can become extroverts:
Not ruling anything out, but generally there’s no reason to think becoming an extrovert will “fix us.”
The truth is, in a world without introverts, we would be missing some of the most influential people in humanity such as J.K. Rowling, the author of the infamous Harry Potter books, who is frequently sited as an introvert.
As introverts, arguably we have an inborn personality which allows us to find our inner world more rewarding. Therefore, we don’t need to reverse out personality; we need to embrace it!
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