Introvert personalities tend to be overlooked in the classroom and workplace because of their quieter demeanor, but if one looks back through history, most of the world-changers have had introvert qualities. Think Alexander Graham Bell, Albert Einstein, Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, Moses, Mark Zuckerberg, Oprah.

Today I’d like to shine the spotlight on introverts and cover these three topics:

The Definition and Qualities of Introversion

Introversion defined: Introversion is not about social awkwardness. It’s about energy. Introverts lose energy with social interactions. They need time alone to recharge or they become emotionally drained. They prefer quiet, low-key environments.

Are you an introvert? Take this quiz and find out!

Quiet Quiz

4 Types of Introversion There is a spectrum.

• Social – the most outgoing and most private of the types. Some may assume they are extroverts. They don’t feel shy or anxious in social settings but get drained if it goes on too long. They still prefer to socialize with a smaller group of close friends.
• Thinking – they also do not mind socializing, but rarely do so because they prefer to be in their quiet world thinking. They may come off as aloof to those who don’t know them. They are in tune with their feelings more than others.
• Shy or Anxious – they replay social encounters over in their head, stressing about what they did or said wrong. They crave solitude even when they are with their close friends.  They are extremely uncomfortable in new or large social situations and analyze their own behavior when in public. It is not an anxiety disorder unless one avoids necessary social interactions due to physical reactions such as shaking, nausea or heart racing. In that case, seek professional attention.
• Restrained – they feel uncomfortable if they feel rushed into social situations. They are reserved, thoughtful, and don’t like change. They will go out if planned far in advance, but would rather be home relaxing by themselves, reading, binge watching a favorite show or engrossed in a hobby. They thrive in their routine.

Simon Sinek says leadership skills have nothing to do with being an introvert or extrovert. He believes undying belief in your cause – how much energy you are willing to devote to that cause- creates your charisma. With that said, there are characteristics that introverts uniquely possess that are ingredients for great leadership! See if any of these sound like you!

Introvert strengths that are beneficial leadership:

• They have a strong sense of identity and self-awareness
• They know what they want and are great at setting goals
• They typically have firmly rooted personal values
• They have a soft side and are very loyal
• They can pick up emotional ques from others and sense the atmosphere in the room
• They are deep thinkers, so conversations are intellectually stimulating
• Well read
• They are good listeners and are willing to give time and attention to really hear the other person
• They don’t have to have constant entertainment, loud parties, or large crowds that distract from the attention on the other person
• They can be more conservative about risk-taking
• They can be more creative and better problem solvers

If you are an introvert, be encouraged and recognize your strengths! You may have been passed up for leadership roles in the past, but when you find your passion, there will be no stopping you!

Check out my next article on hints for leaders and introverts!

-Jan Jones

Below is a list of the YouTube videos I referenced today. Check them out!

8 Things That Makes Introverts Incredibly Attractive – YouTube