So far I have enjoyed reading Quiet: The Power of Introverts. Because I keep to myself, and because I am particular about who I spend my time with, I consider myself an introvert. By no means am I cold person, I am very welcoming to everyone I meet. I am also a great listener. I agree with the book's position that, today, people are strongly pushed to appear to be extroverts. In any college course I have taken participation points are big deal and professors want to push us out of our comfort zones with group projects and presentations. Any of these situations tend to make me nervous because it is an opportunity for my peers to judge me. In a classroom setting I prefer to sit and listen and will only speak out when I'm one hundred percent certain of what I have to say.
There are qualities about being an introvert that are important, because I am soft spoken it makes me a good listener, and if I have something to say you know it must be very important to me. Of course there are situations in life where being an extrovert is needed Since I began my job as a waitress I've become more vocal around strangers, and don't focus on being embarrassed, or making mistakes. I am only human.
I don't believe anyone is completely introvert or extrovert every one is unique and reacts differently, Life would be boring if we were all the same. Being more introverted is part of who I am, and I wouldn't change that for anything.
I can relate to your post. I am also very shy and introverted but warm and friendly. You mention that certain situations make you nervous because it is an opportunity for peers to judge you. I am a musician and play well in my lessons and in a group. However, when I have to play alone in front of a jury, I get so nervous that I shake and make mistakes that I never made in practice. Some people are very critical and will judge me. However, others offer constructive criticism that helps me improve. I try to listen to the criticism and learn what I can from it to better myself as a musician.
ReplyDeleteKrysta, I feel as though we share similar traits as being introverts. I can really relate to the part where you say "In a classroom setting I prefer to sit and listen and will only speak out when I'm one hundred percent certain of what I have to say," because I am the same exact way. I too feel as though we as humans fall somewhere between the introvert and extrovert spectrum. I agree there isn’t anyone who is completely on one side but too feel as though I am closer to the introvert side. I really liked your post because I could easily relate it to myself.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are comfortable with who you are. It took me until just recently to realize I can't change the fact that I am an introvert, and I am ok with that. Professors and different jobs shouldn't only be focused on having to be social or extroverted, even though I understand communication is important. I agree with you that it is good that people are different and that we shouldn't have to feel ashamed or embarrassed that we are quiet.
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