As an introvert, you can be your own best friend or your worst enemy. The good news is we generally like our own company, a quality that extroverts often envy. We find comfort in solitude and know how to soothe ourselves. Even our willingness to look at ourselves critically is often helpful.But, we can go too far. We can hoard responsibility and overlook the role others play. We can kick ourselves when we're down. How many times have you felt lousy about something, only to get mad at yourself for feeling lousy?
Laurie HelgoeExtroverts are more attuned to social rewards, so they are more likely to flash a smile for effect. A notable exception are introverts - like me - whom I call "socially accessible" introverts. We have been trained well to smile and nod, which can place a burden on our processing efforts.
Laurie HelgoeAs an introvert, you can be your own best friend or your worst enemy. The good news is we generally like our own company, a quality that extroverts often envy. We find comfort in solitude and know how to soothe ourselves. Even our willingness to look at ourselves critically is often helpful.But, we can go too far. We can hoard responsibility and overlook the role others play. We can kick ourselves when we're down. How many times have you felt lousy about something, only to get mad at yourself for feeling lousy?
Laurie HelgoeIntrovert, her brain responds with a high level of activity, it is as if several lights start flashing on a control panel.
Laurie HelgoeYour nature is not the problem. The problem is that you have become alienated from your nature -- from your power source.
Laurie HelgoeIntroverts keep their best stuff insideโthat is, until it is ready. And this drives extroverts crazy! The explanation for the introvertโs behaviorโand there must be an explanation for this behavior, say the extrovertsโis that he or she is antisocial, out of touch, or simply a snob.
Laurie Helgoe