1. Introverts are Shy
Introverts can be, but are not always shy.
Although introverts and those who are shy share similar personality traits, these characteristics are not the same. A shy individual will avoid social situations not because they want to, often they feel a very strong want to fit in, but because these individuals have a fear of socializing. Introverts on the other hand are often comfortable socializing, but are more content and find more reward in solitary moments. They are often exhausted by social gatherings and prefer the comfort and quiet of being alone (Hutson & Helgoe, 2010).
Although introverts and those who are shy share similar personality traits, these characteristics are not the same. A shy individual will avoid social situations not because they want to, often they feel a very strong want to fit in, but because these individuals have a fear of socializing. Introverts on the other hand are often comfortable socializing, but are more content and find more reward in solitary moments. They are often exhausted by social gatherings and prefer the comfort and quiet of being alone (Hutson & Helgoe, 2010).
2. Introverts are Socially Incompetent
Many introverts have no problems with communication or other socialization norms. In fact, introverts are often better listeners and are more cautious with their choice of responses and comments (Cain, 2012). Those who misunderstand introverts may find them socially incompetent because of their slow communication style and need for "alone time", but these qualities are usually used by the individual for a more thoughtful response or to find peace and happiness in their lives.
3. Introverts Always Want to be Alone
“Solitude matters, and for some people, it's the air they breathe”
― Susan Cain
Although introverts have a need for alone time to rejuvenate in a minimally stimulating environment, they also find enjoyment in social situations (Cain, 2012). In fact, it has been found that introverts spend as much time as their extrovert counterparts with close friends, family and other loved ones. (Hutson & Helgoe, 2010)
4. Introversion is Rare, Most People are Extroverts
According to research, about 30% of the population are introverts. So why do we think that introversion is rare?
Some suggestions as to why we think this include:
- We see extroverts as more predominant because they are more salient.
- The media portrays characters as extroverted, charismatic individuals which does not fit the realities of society. (Hutson & Helgoe, 2010)
5. You can Overcome Introversion
According to author Susan Cain, a persons inclination to be an introvert or an extrovert is as deep rooted as our gender. You can not "fix" introversion, nor is it something that requires fixing. In a world where introversion is looked down upon, individuals have become "psuedo-extroverts", acting out of character to become an extrovert. This can be healthy when an important situation deems it necessary, but individuals must allow themselves time in solitude to restore their peace and happiness. Sometimes introverts have to be introverted.
For more reading on the pros of being introverted, please see this Time Magazine Article: The Upside of Being an Introvert (And Why Extroverts are Overrated).
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2105432,00.html
