As introverts are a minority—a mere twenty-five percent of the population—there are many persistent misconceptions about the introvert personality among the majority. After reading The Introvert Advantage, Carl King decided to compile a list of myths about introverts, explaining why each misconception is false:
- Introverts don’t like to talk.
- Introverts are shy.
- Introverts are rude.
- Introverts don’t like people.
- Introverts don’t like to go out in public.
- Introverts always want to be alone.
- Introverts are weird.
- Introverts are aloof nerds.
- Introverts don’t know how to relax and have fun.
- Introverts can fix themselves and become Extroverts.
The list itself is fairly obvious and pedestrian, but it’s King’s short descriptions that are truly insightful. For example, here are the explanations for myths four, five and six:
Introverts intensely value the few friends they have. They can count their close friends on one hand. If you are lucky enough for an introvert to consider you a friend, you probably have a loyal ally for life. Once you have earned their respect as being a person of substance, you’re in.
Introverts just don’t like to go out in public FOR AS LONG. They also like to avoid the complications that are involved in public activities. They take in data and experiences very quickly, and as a result, don’t need to be there for long to “get it.” They’re ready to go home, recharge, and process it all. In fact, recharging is absolutely crucial for Introverts.
Introverts are perfectly comfortable with their own thoughts. They think a lot. They daydream. They like to have problems to work on, puzzles to solve. But they can also get incredibly lonely if they don’t have anyone to share their discoveries with. They crave an authentic and sincere connection with ONE PERSON at a time.
via Link Banana