The Energy Within

There is no doubt we live in an extroverted society; there tends to be a greater value placed on being social, outgoing and gregarious. I have noticed in my practice that often times when I mention to someone the possibility that they might be a tad more on the introverted end of the scale, there is almost a look of doubt on their faces. The reality about introversion that it is not about being reclusive or hermit-like and it is not about “hating people.” The biggest difference between an introvert and an extrovert is where they get their energy. Introverts get it from within and extroverts get it from other people. This is why a person at a party who tends to be more introverted, will be looking at their watch at midnight thinking “Okay time to go; I need some home time” whereas the extrovert will be staying until the lights go out. 😊

Introverts internalize more (can think about something for days), tends to dislike small talk, will avoid confrontation, doesn’t like being the center of attention and wishes they could be quicker on their feet when it comes to needing a swift verbal response. They also tend to be empathic, thorough and can manage silence well. Introversion is also a temperament quality; we tend to be born with those tendencies, and will look to skill building and understanding versus trying to change who we are.

If you are interested in learning more about introversion, two great books worth mentioning: “The Introvert Advantage” by Marti Olsen Laney and “Quiet” by Susan Cain.

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