If you ask the question what are benefits of being an introvert, you will probably get different answers depending on who you actually ask. For some reason it feels as if society likes to view introverts as something negative or wrong.
Why is it seen as a bad thing? Many deep thinkers find the world is too loud as it is and the competition to be the centre of attention is a battle on the best of days. Some people seem to love the sound of their voice and need being heard no matter what they are saying whether it makes sense or not.
Are there any benefits of being an introvert?
Imagine if everyone in the world was like this? The fight for centre stage would be all out screaming, pushing and shoving. No one would listen anymore as people are just shouting over the noise to try and get heard.
Wow that sounds scary already. Where would the quiet places be? Nothing would get done as everyone vies for the spotlight. All talk and no action.
That would be a sad world. For this reason alone I find it wonderful that people are different. Knowing that there are the extroverts and ones who love being the focus of attention is a relief. Let them have it. They can break the silence and get the ball rolling or even get things done. They have their place in the world.
On the same level the world needs the introverts as well. Society needs the quiet deep thinkers to balance out things. Ensuring that there are people who are willing to remain quiet and calm in a situation is as important.
Silence is amazing at times. Moments of peace in the noisy and busy lives we all lead. Of course there are people who are pure extroverts and others who are pure introverts. Then there are people who just have moments of both. They can function in both worlds when they have to. That would be more they are introverts and can behave or perform like an extrovert for moments when they need to be but have a short term ability to do so. They need the down time or the alone time to recharge their batteries and feel ok with themselves again. The inner calm needs to be restored.
Insight to introversion
Speaking as an introvert I enjoy the fact that there are extroverts out there. They are best at jumping in and talking immediately or breaking the silence. They enjoy being the centre of attention. That removes the pressure for me to think do I have to say something or speak up. That stress is removed so let them have it.
However, I feel that introverts are often overlooked and misunderstood. When we are told why don’t we be more like them. This quote always comes to mind.
“People always tell introverts to be more talkative and leave their comfort zones, yet no one tells extroverts to shut up and to make the zone comfortable.”
Why are extroverts not asked to be more like an introvert? or to move out of their comfort zones and allow space for the introverts?
A list of introvert skills
For society in general who may not be aware how many benefits there are for being an introvert read on and check out the list below. If you are an introvert and fed up being forgotten or looked down on as not a valued member of society then keep reading and find out when you start to smile again. When you stop and think about how relatable this all is.
- Strong listening skills
It goes without saying that if introverts do not talk or feel the need to talk they are listening to others who are. They hear what is going on, They can build trust and gather valuable information.
- Observational strength
Being silent means they can notice the subtle details and patterns that others miss. As they observe social cues and the behaviour of others are noted. This can help in analysis and strategic planning. It can also allow them to develop keep empathy. They have a sensitivity that helps them support friend, colleagues or family members who are struggling but have not even asked for help. Introverts pick up on the feel of a room and the people within.
- Creative soul
They are creative souls. Spending time alone fuels their imagination. This results in original ideas in writing or art. It can also apply to problem-solving.
- Ability to work independently
They are comfortable working alone or completing tasks independently. This leads to increased productivity and reduces the requirement of constant supervision. It also allows the introvert to entertain themselves. They do not need constant stimulation to occupy themselves.
- Self-aware learner
In their quiet moments of thought it helps them understand their strengths and weaknesses. They can identify their growth areas and realise the benefits of learning them for themselves.
- Quality over quantity in relationships
Introverts do not need to have large groups or gangs of friends. They do not understand the need to have so many. Investment in a few close relationships is more important to them. This allows them to build a strong bond, mutual respect and a sense of loyalty.
- Written communication skills
Many introverts are great at articulating thoughts clearly in writing. They have the ability to write detailed and descriptive articles, emails or stories.
- Resilience to overload
Most introverts will quickly learn how much social interaction is enough and when they really just need that time out for themselves. They understand the time when they need to pull back and recharge their batteries usually in silence. It has nothing to do with other people. They can be the nicest people there are. There is just a limited amount of time that they feel like they can do this.
- Thoughtful decision making
They weigh up the options carefully before they act. Some may say they overthink things. This often leads to making focused and well considered decisions. Time is taken to look at all the angles.
- Calm presence
As introverts are calm by nature they can create a soothing atmosphere for others around them. This is beneficial not only in a work situation when collaborating in a team during stressful times but also in a personal setting. Other people notice the calming presence and relax themselves. Allowing them a chance to rest when they may not have even noticed they needed it.
- Mindful living
We still talk about minimalism and living a simple life. All of this is something that an introvert enjoys. They look for the calm and quiet home not overloaded with things. They don’t want the overstimulation. Simple living is a way of life. Enjoying the basic things and appreciating the moment is a goal.
The positive benefits of introverts
Society seems to enjoy painting introverts in a negative light which is so unfair and confusing. We do need both introverts and extroverts for their respective skills or traits. We need the brash, loud and quick thinkers who are the extroverts. Those who do not shy from attention or immediate action. On the other hand we also need the qualities of introversion as well. They bring deep focus, attentive listening, observational skills, reflective creativity and a steady reliability that work together with other personality traits to help enrich teams in a work place, communities in general and society as a whole. It is time to celebrate the introverts among us. We have a lot to contribute to society. Check out the collection of inspirational introvert quotes.
