When I was reading the book, Quiet: The Power of
Introverts, it made me realize how much of an introvert I am. I have always been introverted, shy and
quiet. I am an artist and a
musician. I can express myself through
my art better than with words. Meeting new people and being in new situations
is difficult for me. When I am here at school and in a group of people, I would
rather blend in than be the center of attention. I am more comfortable with
close friends and family. Whenever I
perform in orchestra concerts or have to speak in class, I get so nervous that
I can barely concentrate on what I’m about to do.
The story in the book about Dale Carnegie wanting to be a
public speaker reminded me of my first time teaching a group of children to
play violin. I was so nervous that my voice became shaky and hard for the
students to hear. My teacher told me to
relax, think of what I want to say, and speak as if I’m talking to the back of
the room. Once I did, I started to
become less nervous speaking. Like Mr.
Carnegie, I practiced a lot to improve. I am much better at it now, although I
still get nervous. I learn best through
gentle teaching methods and encouragement so that is how I teach my students.
Quiet helped me to see the strength in my
quiet, gentle, introverted personality.
I listen more than I talk and I really hear what others are saying. I am loyal and dependable and a good friend.
I empathize with other people and feel compassion for them. I notice the new person in a group and try to
make them feel welcome. I will never be
extroverted. I’m alright with being the
quiet person that I am. Each of us has
strengths. My strengths just don’t
shout, they whisper.
Your story about your first teaching experience reminded me of what my Seminar professor just spoke about today. He was saying that the first time he needed to give a huge formal presentation about his content area, he was extremely nervous. As he started to talk about what he loved, he grew more and more relaxed then realized that he wanted to be a teacher. I can also somewhat relate with you about the performing at concerts and the like as well. I love to dance, in fact I’m dancing in a conventions Masquerade tomorrow! I’m also so nervous that concentration is difficult. But, if we couldn’t remotely get through it, we wouldn’t keep doing it! I feel like it’s that thing that we wish we could but it’s just very difficult. Maybe I’m wrong and I’m putting words in your mouth, and if so I’m very sorry!
ReplyDeleteI really like the way you wrote this. At the risk of sounding corny, it touched me. I too am an artist and though I do not perform in concert, I do teach small children. The first time I had to teach I couldn't concentrate on what I was trying to say. I felt I was all over the place, and probably was, however, the experienced teach by my side gave me wonderful pointers (just as yours did) and it helped me through. I think as introverts we all have many things in common, however, we don't always know how to express ourselves. You had mentioned that you express yourself better through your art than with words...if that is the case, I would love to see your art work or hear you play because I thought you made your point beautifully!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your post. I am happy that you have found a way to express yourself through art. Art is a weak area for me but I admire people who can play instruments, sing , paint etc. When reading about your public speaking experience, I could relate as I get the same feelings when I have to talk in front of people. It takes a lot of practice to improve. I find myself having to force myself to practice. I admire that you are a loyal and dependable friend. Empathy with people is also a helpful quality to have. You made your with a whisper!
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