Getting to know our own personalities can be very helpful in our personal development. Our education, careers, small businesses, relationships and our lives in general will benefit as a result. It can be a real eye opener when we realise how others see the world in very different ways to ourselves.
Why do we prefer to do things in the way that we do? In what other ways could we think and behave and get different results? Are we operating in our Comfort Zone and what would happen if we stepped out into our Stretch Zone and tickled our nerves?
All of us fall somewhere on the spectrum of Introversion and Extraversion.
Here are some strengths and weaknesses of an Introverted Personality from Jason’s perspective who scored 90% Introverted in a recent test.
Strengths
1. Insightful & empathetic.
Introverts tend to listen more than they speak and therefore take in more data about other people. Information gets drowned out if you are constantly figuring out what to say next. Will that Extravert ever stop talking lol? Introverts pick up the subtle hints that others give them about who they are and what they care about. Other people are surprised and touched by how well Introverts understand them. It is because they are paying attention to the details that extraverts often miss. As relationship develops, people begin to associate Introverts with the positive feelings that come with being listened to and cared about.
2. Self-motivated.
I’s love the feeling of being completely immersed in work that they enjoy. Introverts still crave downtime to relax and chat, but they don’t require as much external stimulation as Extraverts. I’s are happiest when they work autonomously at their own pace, without constant interruptions or unnecessary supervision. This makes them incredibly easy to manage as students, employees or as self-motivated small business owners, because they basically do it for you!
3. Leaders of a different sort.
Introverts can be fantastic leaders when given the chance. They don’t seize power but rather start quietly leading those around them through mentorship, encouragement, wisdom, and inspiration. Introverts value others’ perspectives. They keep their egos in check, and they don’t take risks without thinking them through.
4. Eloquent & thoughtful.
Speaking without thinking will rarely be an issue for an Introvert. They speak with intention, and because of this, their words carry more weight. Introverts are known for their wisdom and poise because they always take the time to think things through. Contrary to the stereotype Introverts can be incredibly charismatic public speakers as long as they are given ample opportunity to gather their thoughts first and prepare.
5. Introspective.
Introverts know themselves on a level that others can’t even comprehend. They reflect upon and reconsider their strengths, weaknesses, past experiences, and future goals daily.
6. Writers by nature.
It’s easier for them to communicate from a distance, where they can weigh an issue carefully before crafting a response. Where others struggle to translate their thoughts into writing, Introverts truly shine.
7. Strive to please.
Introverts care about expressing themselves well and incorporating others’ feedback. They are rarely careless or callous. Introverts are so tuned in to others’ experiences and perceptions that they simply can’t help it!
Weaknesses
1. Desire for Approval.
If they are not careful Introverts can put their desire for others’ approval ahead of their own priorities; if left unchecked, too much ‘Please Others’ can create difficulties.
2. Highly sensitive.
Even if Introverts know you’re giving constructive feedback they may still need a little time to process and accept what they have heard. Introverts usually take feedback seriously. Being highly sensitive is also a great strength. A blessing or a curse depending upon the circ*mstances.
3. Anxiety or Worry.
I’s find some situations challenging when other more Extraverted individuals might feel completely normal. For example I’s can secretly despise open office layouts as they can feel exposed and unable to focus.
I’s often dread making small talk especially at networking events, because it feels awkward and forced. However I’s love connecting with people through deeper
conversations about things both care about — and they can be mistaken for extroverts in these moments! More experienced Introverts learn the art of small talk and see this skill as a necessary route to the more meaningful conversations beyond.
4. Don’t like interruptions.
Introverts are easily distracted by external stimuli and while they might be too nice to say anything, get very frustrated with constant interruptions when they are trying to concentrate. Workplaces where people are constantly striking up conversations or breaking up the day with unnecessary meetings make it almost impossible for I’s to engage in deep thought.
5. Can be quiet and unassertive.
Introverts are sometimes drowned out by louder or more persistent voices. When I’s are quiet in meetings, it’s because they are thinking through their responses carefully. Other times they know that they have the best idea in the room, but they would rather not have to vie for attention in order to speak their minds. When they are in an environment where they know they are respected and their ideas can make a difference, however, an introvert will speak up just as often as their extroverted counterparts.
6. Hate being put on the spot.
Don’t ask Introverts to come up with brilliant ideas on a moment’s notice. When they are surrounded by people, all waiting for them to come up with an answer out of thin air, their brains literally fill up with white noise. The work-around is easy. Just send an Introvert a request ahead of time asking them to bring their ideas to the meeting. They may blow your minds with their well-thought-out suggestions.
7. Can seem aloof.
Introverts can be difficult to get to know, but they don’t mean to be. I’s are just as gregarious as extroverts. They just need more time to warm up. When I’s start a new job, breaking into an existing group can feel to them like an insurmountable challenge. Just wait. Once they feel comfortable, they just might be the best co-worker you’ve ever had.
8. Need to recharge.
Whereas extroverts feel energized after social interactions, Introverts need some time to regain their energy. It’s not they don’t enjoy socializing just as much as extroverts do, however they truly come to life when they are engaged in deep conversations. Introverts need space in their schedules to recharge after social occasions; if they are forced to sacrifice this they won’t be operating at full capacity until they have had a break.
About Jason
Sometimes it can seem that the world is set up for Extraverts. Not so! As a high scoring Introvert I can tell you that we have some fantastic strengths and can find our place in the world and be happy and successful.
I understand Introverts because I am one! I have a busy mentoring and coaching business and help all sorts of individuals like yourself get from where they are to where they want to be with my bespoke Life, Career and Business Coaching services.
