I was interested to read The Economist article:
Shhhh!
Companies would benefit from helping introverts to thrive
It challenges what so many of us see as the most effective, or even better personality type: namely, the bigger the personality the better the outcome.
I am someone who is seen by many as an extrovert, I do see myself as one too, but over time I have come to realise that I am well and truly on the introvert/extrovert spectrum.
I remember one day when a friend ran up to me at a garden party with the words ‘You’re an extrovert Susie, you recharge your batteries with other people don’t you?’
My reply of ‘No, I recharge alone.’ obviously threw her argument because she turned on her rejected heels to explain my answers to the others.
It was a turning point for me, a new realisation. I am indeed an extrovert, but I work hard at it. I do love people and I want them to feel loved too, and so I make a lot of effort to ensure they know I care. But the need to be totally alone sometimes overwhelms so much that I am unable to speak.
I am drawn to introverts too. Maybe they balance out the outspoken me…? I love the peace I feel with a still person. I don’t mean, a shy, hard to get a word out, kind of person, I mean those who think and deliberate without shouting. In fact I worked for many years in a charity where I was trained; where I developed groups and set up various pieces of work. I was believed in and encouraged. My boss was a quietly spoken introvert and I loved the fact that he gave me my head to run with new ideas. If it didn’t work I dusted myself down as I tried again. He continued to believe in me…
I love to speak, I mean on a stage, not just one to one. But the energy required is massive and afterwards I need to be alone. Maybe it’s the drop in adrenaline, and maybe it’s the introvert part saying.’Ok, lets be still now’
So it was with great interest that I read the article.
I think we really do have to consider the different personality types within the corporate work environment. It will definitely make for more harmonious living and working, if those who don’t shout the loudest, are given space the breathe and thrive. It will also encourage individual thinking and development and thus will bring about success for all.
susiefj@stay-the-path.org