Persistence isn't very glamorous. If genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration, then as a culture we tend to lionize the one percent. We love its flash and dazzle. But great power lies in the other ninety-nine percent.
Susan CainThe emphasis is on community, on participating in more and more programs and events, on meeting more and more people. Itโs a constant tension for many introverts that theyโre not living that out. And in a religious world, thereโs more at stake when you feel that tension. It doesnโt feel like โIโm not doing as well as Iโd like.โ It feels like โGod isnโt pleased with me.โ
Susan CainThe secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it's a Broadway spotlight; for others, a lamplit desk. Use your natural powers -- of persistence, concentration, and insight -- to do work you love and work that matters. Solve problems. make art, think deeply.
Susan CainA widely held, but rarely articulated, belief in our society is that the ideal self is bold, alpha, gregarious. Introversion is viewed somewhere between disappointment and pathology.
Susan CainThere is no one more courageous than the person who speaks with the courage of his convictions.
Susan CainSpend your free time the way you like, not the way you think you're supposed to. Stay home on New Year's Eve if that's what makes you happy. Skip the committee meeting. Cross the street to avoid making aimless chitchat with random acquaintances. Read. Cook. Run. Write a story. Make a deal with yourself that you'll attend a set number of social events in exchange for not feeling guilty when you beg off.
Susan Cain