There are a lot of misconceptions about introverts — like that they’re antisocial, unfriendly, shy or lonely. But in many cases, being an introvert can actually be an asset. In this article, we will let you in on how being someone who stays to themselves is actually not a bad thing at all. In today’s day and age, staying to yourself is something which can actually provide you endless benefits. At a time when everyone wants to share everything about themselves on social media, it’s better when you hold some things within. Here’s looking into some of the ways in which enjoying your own company is actually the best thing for you:
By Sufiyan Alim
I ntroverts are naturally adept when it comes to actively listening. Extroverted people are more inclined to jump into a conversation before fully processing what the other person has said. Not because they’re selfish or don’t care, but because they process information interactively. Conversely, introverts process information internally. That skill allows them to hear, understand and provide carefully considered insight when they do respond.
Because introverts typically feel less comfortable speaking than they do listening, they choose their words wisely. That being said, introverts may take a little too long to formulate their thoughts before sharing them — especially in fast-paced business settings. The skill of choosing your words wisely is just as beneficial online as it is in person. Introverts are more effective on social media because they’re less prone to knee-jerk reactions than extroverts.
In addition to their superior listening skills, introverts possess a “superpower”: their observation skills. They notice things others might not notice because they’re talking and processing out loud. Although it may look like they’re just sitting quietly during a meeting, introverts are actually soaking in the information that’s being presented and thinking critically. The typical introvert also uses his or her observant nature to read the room. They’re more likely to notice people’s body language and facial expressions, which makes them better at interpersonal communication. Introverts are especially skilled at noticing introverted qualities in others. They can tell when a person is thinking, processing and observing, and then give them the space to do so, which makes people feel much more comfortable.
Since introverts can feel their energy being drained by being around other people — as opposed to extroverts, who gain energy from being with others.
Also introverts choose their friends wisely. They would rather have a few close, trusted friendships to invest their time and energy in. This quality causes introverts to be loyal, attentive and committed friends. Introverts crave personal space to reflect and refuel, and they can sense when their partners need space, too. And the same qualities that make introverts great listeners also make them great partners. At the end of a long day, they’re there to listen and support their partner without feeling compelled to talk about themselves.
Introverts also like to get to know someone before sharing intimate details with a prospective partner, and it can make them appear more appealing in the early stages of relationships. Being in a large group where the goal is to meet, talk and make a good first impression can be overwhelming for many — especially for introverts. They can use their natural strengths to create meaningful connections. Extroverts may approach networking events with the goal of talking to as many people as possible, but often, those quick conversations don’t leave lasting impacts. The strength in networking is not necessarily in numbers. Introverts should focus on learning about people they meet — even if they only connect with a handful of people.
Introverts can also make the best and compassionate leaders — when they channel their natural strengths. For starters, they don’t feel the need to step into the spotlight and take all of the credit for group successes; rather, they are likely to highlight the strengths of their teams. And since introverts process information more slowly and thoughtfully than their extroverted counterparts, introverted leaders tend to learn more about their subordinates. They have focused conversations with their team members in order to learn their skills, passions and strengths.
