The introverts of the world are often misunderstood – these shy, reserved, quiet or introspective people may be thought of as disinterested, stand-offish or even rude. While extroverts will talk to new people without much hesitation, this is difficult for introverts. Introverts also don’t see the point of socialising too much, speaking to new people and having a wide group of friends. As such there are some preconceptions about introverts, who face some unique challenges because of this. 2 January was World Introvert Day and for a change, the introverts of the world were speaking out:
They are quiet and don’t feel the need to make a noise or to make their presence felt. There are enough people around doing that without adding to the chatter.
They are the loners, the creative people, the dreamers. Perhaps they are cat lovers, because these are the pets that are not needy and give them their space.
Introverts are thoughtful and quiet but may often be mistaken for being arrogant or snobby. They enjoy being at home, they enjoy their own company and may often be mislabeled as antisocial.
They like people but in small doses. It isn't that introverts don’t like being around others. They just don’t need to have a lot of people around all the time.
…When they find the right people. They don’t find the need to share everything with everyone.
Extroverts tend to get more attention – most introverts don’t want the attention.
Since extroverts usually hog the limelight, introverts and their needs/feelings are often overlooked. World Introvert Day is the one day of the year extroverts can try gain some insight.
Introverts are merely reserved – it is a good idea for the rest of the world to try and understand the difference.
…Is a compliment! They don’t like small talk or having too many friends. They appreciate true connections with a select few.
No thanks! Unless it is with the people they like, doing the things they like. Big soulless gatherings, with wall to wall strangers, are their idea of a nightmare.
No, just life as they like it! Introverts are uniquely suited to the quarantine and lockdown lifestyle.
…Like this.
The introvert’s idea of fun is different from what extroverts think of as fun.
Their sense of humour may seem a little offbeat – a little subtle for the rest of us.
Oftentimes, being an introvert is just about having boundaries.
Being a zookeeper, forest ranger, or librarian are probably good career options. The point is that introverts have different social needs and function differently. Loved ones would do well to take the time to understand this and not take things personally – World Introvert Day is as good a day as any to start.
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