I am an introvert. What does that mean, and why does it matter? Let's get this out of the way first: it's not a label, a box, or a limitation. It's not something to overcome, reject, or be embarrassed about. It's one very influential aspect of my complex being that informs choices I make every day. On a basic level, it means I gain energy from solitude and silence, and drain energy from … [Read more...]
How to Act Like an Introvert
"Did you know that recent research shows that extroverts are generally happier and that introverts feel happier when they act extroverted? Even the Wall Street Journal is talking about it (http://on.wsj.com/15XiVuN)." If that opening sentence sounds familiar, it's because I've written about it before. I was ready to let the subject go for the time being. After all, who has time to chase down … [Read more...]
I’m More Me Without You: The Future of the Introvert-Extrovert Conversation
You've come a long way, baby. When I started The Introvert Entrepreneur in May 2010, introversion was a topic that hung out at the edges of the room (like many introverts!). A March 2003 article, "Caring for Your Introvert," was the most popular piece making the rounds (and is still popular 10 years later). Then came along "Introvert Power" (2008/2013), "Self-Promotion for Introverts" … [Read more...]
How an Introvert Can Be Happier: Ignore the Studies
"'If you're introverted and act extroverted, you will be happier. It doesn't matter who you are, it's all about what you do,' said William Fleeson, a psychology professor at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C." Wow. This amazing quote comes from a Wall Street Journal article published a few weeks ago, "How an Introvert Can Be Happier: Act Like an Extrovert." Given how many … [Read more...]
When Introvert Ignorance is No Longer Bliss
Those of us who are tooting the Team Introvert horn, loud and proud (relatively speaking!), have a few shared core messages: Being an introvert isn't a liability, it's an asset. Honor your need and desire for alone time, no apologies. Don't let the noise of the outer world drown out your inner voice. Your energy and power comes from within. You have innate strengths that enable you to be a … [Read more...]
The Quiet Influence of Introverted Leaders with Jennifer Kahnweiler
Over the past few years, the conversation about what it means to be a leader has expanded to include traits we might not normally associate with traditional leadership. People tend to see a natural leader as someone with charisma and an outgoing, social energy. And yet, more is being written about the style of leadership that is more behind the scenes, observant and reflective. This has turned our … [Read more...]
If You’re Happy and You Know It…
Growing up, one of the first songs many of us learned was "If You're Happy and You Know It..." The verse takes us through three actions: clap your hands, stomp your feet, shout "hooray!" Each verse reminds us that if you're happy and you know it, "your face will surely show it." Most of us probably enjoyed the activity (even thinking about it now makes me smile), and it taught us a particular way … [Read more...]
What Do You Want on Your Tombstone?
I am Shekinah. Dwelling place of divine expression, Powerful feline grace, Soft forgiving earth. Well-spring of perception, humor and peace. River of deeply felt compassion and joy. Loyal Sherpa and spiritual midwife. My purpose is to live within the questions, hold the sacred space between the words, gratefully and courageously receive and create possibility, and inspire others to fully realize … [Read more...]
Finding Your Authentic Presence with Jonathan Bender
Comedians often highlight the absurd truths in society, and introvert - yes, introvert - Jerry Seinfeld is especially skilled at shining the light on our contradictory natures. Here's what he has to say about public speaking: "According to most studies, people's number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if … [Read more...]
What Introverts & Dial-Up (Might) Have In Common
A few weeks ago, NPR ran a story about the "slow internet movement," describing internet cafes that charged 99¢ an hour for you to plug your laptop into an old-fashioned modem and experience the World Wide Wait from the 90s all over again. They played the familiar and happy robotic beeping sounds that meant a connection was being made. The reporter talked to a young … [Read more...]