Who better to talk on being an introvert than an introvert. Yes, that's right. I am what society would consider an introvert, by many standards. I like to think of myself as an outspoken introvert. I know what you're thinking: That is a bigger contradiction than the Scotch-Korean from the Starburst commercial. I'll explain a little later, so stay tuned. My top priority lies in explaining a few things about being an introvert that extroverts might not understand.
Introverts Are Keen Observers
Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not socially deprived mutes who are locked away for the sake of their sanity. Introverts, more than likely, talk all of the time, just not around strangers, which isn't always a bad thing. In my experience, listening has opened up the door to actually listen and observe human nature. Observation is key when it comes to whom we, as people, choose to surround ourselves with. Keen observation skills are a strong suit when it comes to being introverted, and serve us well (especially later in life).
Introverts Are Secretly Brilliant
Remember that kid that used to sit in the very back of your English class in high school, reading a book everyday? Remember how he also used to ace every test without even saying a word during class discussions? Introverts tend to surprise society in that way. While you were talking about getting together that night and studying with a friend, he was in his head going over everything that he'd heard that day in class. Most times, we introverts, are in the distant recesses of our minds pondering multiple concepts and situations at one time, all while staying present in what's currently happening in the immediate area. So, maybe that kid in the back with his book isn't so weird anymore, is he?
Introverts Have Strong Opinions/Ideas
Based on the sole fact that introverts are quiet, most people assume that they don't have an opinion on things. A lot of the time, introverts have some of the strongest opinions, they just choose not to share them for fear of rejection from the, as I like to call them, EXTRA-extroverts out there in the world. Nothing against extroverts, but just be aware that there are other opinions to be heard (for the overly opinionated people who must voice their opinion above all others).
Introverts Are Capable of Greatness
Some of the world's most prominent figures were and are introverts. Look at the leaders in innovation, peace, literary merit, etc., and you will see a large group of introverts. People such as Emma Watson, Albert Einstein, J. K. Rowling, Bill Gates, Mahatma Gandhi, and many more have all been labeled introverts. This proves introverts too can be successful citizens in a society that promotes an extrovert-dominated view of what it takes to be successful.
As for me, I consider myself an awakened introvert. I have become more comfortable voicing my opinion in a room full of natural extroverts, yet I still sit back and observe, for the most part, before I dare open my mouth. I push myself to go past my introverted ways in order to experience life at a level that I feel it is meant to be lived. Deep down, though, I will forever be a natural introvert. I want all of my fellow introverts to know that you are perfectly capable of changing the world as you are and you shouldn't ever change for anyone.
