Happy World Introvert Day! January 2nd is a day that introverts (and extroverts) everywhere celebrate the strengths and gifts of introversion.
Our personalities come to us very naturally. Introversion and extroversion are not good or bad but come to us inherently, like being right or left-handed. The important thing is not the label, but understanding what being introverted or extroverted means for you.
Do you know if you are an introvert or an extrovert? If you’re not sure, check out this article: “Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Six things to consider” for some key differences. There are many misperceptions surrounding introversion. For example, introversion is not synonymous with shyness or being antisocial. In fact, introverts actually do LIKE people. Of course, we need a little more alone time than our extroverted counterparts, but we don’t want to be alone ALL the time.
To understand ourselves, we have to come to an understanding of what introversion is and what it isn’t. With understanding, you can get what you want out of life and apply this to work, relationships, communication, leadership, productivity, overall success, and happiness. Here’s an article with a little more info about introverted strengths: “What’s so great about being an introvert?”
Celebrating Awesome Books on Introversion
There have been so many great books written on introversion and for World Introvert Day I want to celebrate these authors. Early on in my journey of self awareness, I went into a Barnes and Noble looking for a particular book on introversion. They did not have it and as I was leaving disappointed, “Introvert Power” by Dr. Laurie Helgoe seemed to jump off a shelf close to the door. (Maybe it was the bright yellow cover). Yes, Introvert Power! What a great title. This book had many great insights and was one that was instrumental in shaping my understanding of introversion. Here is one quote of many from the book “This book is about embracing the power of introversion. It’s about indulging, melting into, drinking in, immersing ourselves in the joy, the genius, and the power of who we naturally are – and not just on the occasional retreat, but in the living of our lives.” Thanks, Laurie, for sharing your experience and incredible insights! This book was life-changing for me.
More of My Favorite Introvert Titles
There have been a few other important books that have helped me gain a better understanding of my own introversion. Here are some of my favorite titles:
Networking For People Who Hate Networking, Devora Zack
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, Susan Cain
Self-Promotion for Introverts: The Quiet Guide to Getting Ahead, Nancy Ancowitz
The Introvert Advantage, Marti Olsen Laney
The Introvert’s Edge: How the Quiet and Shy Can Outsell Anyone, Matthew Pollard
The Introvert’s Way: Living a Quiet Life in a Noisy World, Sophia Dembling
The Quiet Rise of Introverts: 8 Practices for Living and Loving in a Noisy World, Brenda Knowles
The Secret Lives of Introverts, Jenn Granneman
I would like to personally thank these authors for sharing their experience and wisdom with me and the world. You have changed many lives. In fact, I as a result of the influence of many of these authors, I wrote a book on introversion as well, with more planned in the near future. My first book is all about understanding your introverted strengths and needs for improving productivity. It’s called, “Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts.”
Of course, many books – both fiction and nonfiction – are the result of great introverted minds, solving the world’s problems, or providing insight and entertainment in worlds we can only imagine. Thank you to all introverted authors, and keep up the great work!
How can we continue to change the world and perceptions when it comes to our natural personality differences? I approach life in a different way as an introvert, but it is a legitimate way nonetheless. The strengths and needs of introverts and extroverts are all legitimate and should be understood, appreciated, and celebrated!
In honor of World Introvert Day, I’m excited to announce the launch of my new podcast, The Quiet and Strong Podcast, Especially for Introverts. Please join with me in the continued conversation and celebration of introversion. Happy World Introvert Day!
David Hall, M.Ed. is a speaker, author, and host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast, where he interviews thought leaders, creatives, and professionals who help introverts thrive. With over 25 years in higher education, David has led workshops, trainings, and presentations on productivity, personality, and introversion. His mission is to help introverts honor their needs, understand their strengths, and succeed on their own terms. He is the author of Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts and a passionate advocate for creating work environments where introverts can do their best work.
