The Quiet Beginnings - Born an Introvert
As a child, I was the quintessential introvert. I often found solace in my solitude or limiting my interactions with a few select friends.
My teachers would describe me as "shy" or "reserved," but I was always a good student, so they meant it in a positive way. Except maybe on occasions like once in high school, when a career counsellor was giving a talk and my English teacher goaded me to ask something since I was super quiet during the Q&A session. I blurted out "What about marine engineering?" and went back to my quiet little world even as the counsellor started to explain how that could be an interesting career choice. I have no idea what he answered.
Those early years however were filled with vivid imagination, deep thoughts, and a preference for meaningful one-on-one conversations over large group interactions. Looking back, I realize that my introversion wasn't a flaw or a setback. It was a superpower.
The Great Extrovert Experiment - University and Beyond
Enter university, the supposed breeding ground for extroverts. Suddenly, I felt like a fish out of water, or an owl forced to party with peacocks. The constant advice to "network," "speak up," and "put yourself out there" felt like a personal attack on my introverted nature. So, I decided to embark on what I now fondly call "The Great Extrovert Experiment." I joined clubs, involved myself in 'nothing' chats and conversations, and even initiated small talk. It was sometimes exhausting, but I thought I was finally "fixing" myself.
Corporate Ladder - The Extrovert's Playground??
As I entered the corporate world, the pressure to be an extrovert intensified. The mantra "Introverts can't succeed in business" played on repeat in my head. I cranked up my extrovert persona to eleven. I networked (or tried to), I schmoozed, I even learned to enjoy the sound of my own voice in meetings (okay, that last part might be a stretch).
By age 38, I had climbed the corporate ladder to become an accidental leader and country manager, building a talented team from scratch to manage both domestic and global businesses. Like some people do not mix business with pleasure, I did not mix my introvert nature with business to grow.
If you are wondering, had I turned into the cliche vibrant, full of life extrovert who is always the center of attention by this time? Nope. I had better chances of turning into a vampire.
The Introvert Strikes Back: Embracing My True Self
I have heard some people say that life starts at 40.
I had an epiphany upon turning 40.
All those years of extrovert cosplay left me disconnected from my true self. I realized that my success wasn't because I had become an extrovert, but because I had leveraged my introverted strengths in an extroverted world.
I decided to hang up my extrovert costume and embrace my introverted nature once again. It felt like coming home.
The Joy of Solitude means Productivity in Quietude
The liberating realization of my journey back to introversion was discovering how much I enjoy and thrive in solitude. Contrary to popular belief, loneliness isn't a curse – for me it is a blessing. With a task at hand and silence surrounding me, I enter a state of flow that would make monks proud.
This love for productive solitude even led me to seriously contemplate a move to Finland, a country famous for its appreciation of personal space and quiet.
In the embrace of silence, my creativity flourishes, my focus sharpens, and my productivity soars. It is not about being comfortable with silence, it is about acknowledging it as a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth.
Advantage to Silent Observers (Powerful Contributors)
Introverts are not the kryptonite of the corporate world, we are its secret weapon. We are the ones who listen when others are too busy talking. We observe, analyze, and likely come up with solutions while others are still arguing about the problem. We wield our silence like a Jedi master wields the Force.
In a world of constant noise, our ability to find clarity in quiet is nothing short of a superpower. Our heightened awareness makes us excellent problem solvers and empathetic leaders.
Quality Over Quantity - The Art of Meaningful Connections
A common misconception about introverts is that we cannot socialize. Au contraire, my extroverted friends!
We simply prefer deep, meaningful connections over superficial small talk. While extroverts might collect friends like Pokémon cards, we introverts curate our relationships like fine art. We may have fewer connections, but the ones we have are as deep as the Mariana Trench and as strong as Vibranium or Adamantium.
For introverts, solitude isn't a punishment – it's a privilege. It's our personal recharging station, our fortress of solitude. In those moments of quiet reflection, we process our thoughts, recharge our social batteries, and come up with our best ideas. So the next time you see an introvert enjoying their own company, don't pity them. Envy them.
We have mastered the art of being alone without being lonely.
Embracing the Quiet by Choice
My journey has led me to a profound realization: embracing introversion isn't just about accepting who I am; it's about celebrating it. I've come to understand that my preference for solitude and quiet isn't a quirk to be overcome, but a strength to be harnessed.
Whether it's tackling a complex project in blissful silence, enjoying a solitary walk in nature with sometimes music as a companion, or simply relishing the peace of my own company, I've found that these moments of introversion are when I'm most authentically myself.
For introverts, the experience of cherishing the richness of their inner world and the productivity that flows from it is an unparalleled experience.
Conclusion
As I wrap up this blog post in my cozy, quiet corner of the world, I want to send a message to all the introverts out there: Embrace your nature. Your quietness is not a weakness; it's your strength.
Your need for solitude is not a flaw; it's your superpower.
In a world that can't stop talking - be the one who listens, be the one who observes, be the one who speaks only when there is something meaningful to say.
Quoting the words of Tommy Shelby (okay, the Peaky Blinders writers):
"Introverts, often misunderstood, are an invaluable asset in the professional world. While their tendency to be alone might suggest a lack of substance, the truth is that they crave deep and meaningful connections over superficial interactions. Embracing solitude is not a sign of disinterest; rather, it's a refuge from the chaotic noise and drama that often pervades our modern lives. Simplicity is their sanctuary, where they can truly thrive.
Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not boring – they are actively listening and learning, absorbing every detail that others might overlook. They are not shy; they are observing, taking in their surroundings with a keen eye and a thoughtful mind. And, they are not rude; they are simply quiet, preferring to speak when they have something meaningful to contribute."
My definition of Silence is it is not about keeping quiet. It is knowing when to speak.
So here's to us introverts – may we know them, may we raise them, may we be them. May we find our Finland, whether it's a geographical location or a state of mind. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with solitude, productivity, and the beautiful sound of silence. Introvert out!
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