Benefits of being introverted

Five Benefits of Being an Introvert

A BS in Psychology provides insights into the personality traits that help guide our success.

In a culture that links success with the ability to win friends and influence people, introverts may seem at a disadvantage. But research and expert opinion suggest that introverts have singular capacities that defy stereotypes and position them for personal and professional achievement.

What Is an Introvert?

“The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it’s a Broadway spotlight, for others, a lamplit desk.”—Susan Cain

The introvert and extrovert are part of a theory of personality pioneered by 20th-century Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Carl Jung. Introversion is a personality type characterized by a focus on internal feelings, as opposed to the extrovert’s external sources of stimulation. Approximately 25-40% of people are introverts.¹

Some experts now believe that introversion has four variations: social, thinking, anxious, and restrained. ² Introverts can be a blend of these types, because of course there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to personality. Introverts often define themselves as thoughtful or simply more comfortable in small groups or in solitude.

And researchers now acknowledge that introverts enjoy strengths often overlooked in the past. The introvert’s rich inner life, deliberation, caution, and ability to value contributions from others can pay off in significant ways. Here are five benefits of being an introvert:

Creativity
“I have to be alone very often. I’d be quite happy if I spent from Saturday night until Monday morning alone in my apartment. That’s how I refuel.”—Audrey Hepburn

The extrovert’s focus on social engagement can sometimes drown out his or her inner voice. Introverts tend to be more comfortable spending time alone, which incubates creativity. Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, says, “Some of our greatest ideas, art, and inventions—from the theory of evolution to Van Gogh’s sunflowers to the personal computer—came from quiet and cerebral people who knew how to tune in to their inner worlds and the treasures to be found there. ”³
Academic Performance
“Quiet people have the loudest minds.”—Stephen Hawking

Introverts excel in academic environments. “At the university level, introversion predicts academic performance better than cognitive ability,” author Cain writes. “One study tested 141 college students’ knowledge of 20 different subjects … and found that introverts knew more than the extroverts about every single one of them. Introverts receive disproportionate numbers of graduate degrees, National Merit Scholarship finalist positions … They outperform extroverts on the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, an assessment of critical thinking widely used by businesses for hiring and promotion.”⁴
Health
“For introverts, to be alone with our thoughts is as restorative as sleeping, as nourishing as eating.”—Jonathan Rauch

Because introverts tend to think before speaking or acting, they are less prone to impulsive behavior and the kinds of accidents that can result. A focus on internal rather than external cues may curtail overeating.5 And being tuned in to the need to recharge, introverts tend to get more sleep than extroverts.
Business Success
“I am a minimalist. I like saying the most with the least.”—Bob Newhart

In the global workplace, an introvert’s low-key personality may work well within cultures that place less emphasis than the U.S. does on the traits of the extrovert. Introverts also may excel at communicating via social media,6 a top skill in today’s world of influencers and connection.
Leadership
“There’s zero correlation between being the best talker and having the best ideas.”—Susan Cain

Introverts are more likely to be effective leaders in organizations that encourage workers to contribute ideas. Introverts’ listening skills may draw top results from their teams.7 Introverts also are observant, noticing details and connections others may not—including contributions that other introverts can make.

Learn More in a BS in Psychology Degree Program

“Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.”—Anne Lamott

Walden University’s online psychology degree programs provide rich insights into the real-world application of the theories of personality. As an introvert or extrovert, you can follow a career in psychology through Walden’s general program or one of its relevant concentrations:

Addictions
Applied Psychology
Criminal Justice
Forensic Psychology

Human Services
Preparation for Graduate Studies
Workplace Psychology

As a psychology major, you’ll gain the knowledge to help prepare you for careers that include adult day care worker, alcohol counselor, group home worker, researcher, and court liaison. You may also wish to use your Bachelor of Science in Psychology as a stepping-stone to pursuing an MS in Psychology or even a PhD in Psychology.

If you’re in search of a meaningful career and want to make a difference in the lives of others, consider a degree in psychology. With multiple concentrations and an online platform that lets you set your schedule, Walden’s School of Psychology can help you blaze your path to success—however you define it.

Walden University is an accredited institution offering a BS in Psychology degree program online with multiple concentrations to help you meet your personal and professional goals. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a flexible, convenient format that fits your busy life.

¹Source: www.verywellmind.com/signs-you-are-an-introvert-2795427
²Source: http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2015/06/apparently-there-are-four-kinds-of-introversion.html
³Source: https://books.google.com/books?id=Dc3T6Y7g7LQC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false
⁴Source: www. bakadesuyo.com/2012/10/introvert-extravert/
⁵Source: www.prevention.com/health/a20441396/health-benefits-of-being-an-introvert/
⁶Source: www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/openforum/articles/quiet-influence-6-advantages-introvert/
⁷Source: https://hbr.org/2010/12/the-hidden-advantages-of-quiet-bosses

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.

The Surprising Benefits of Being an Introvert

There are a lot of misconceptions about introverts — like that they’re antisocial, unfriendly, shy or lonely. But in many cases, being an introvert can actually be an asset.

Introverts are people who get their energy from spending time alone, according to Dr. Jennifer Kahnweiler, author of The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength. “It’s kind of like a battery they recharge,” she says. “And then they can go out into the world and connect really beautifully with people. ”

A 2008 study published in the Journal of Motor Behavior found that introverts take a longer time to process information than extroverts. Kahnweiler says this is actually because they process more thoughtfully than extroverts do — they take extra time to understand ideas before moving on to new ones.

While we’re all often flooded with messages that we need to speak up and stand out in order to be successful, introverts can actually achieve even more if they hone their natural strengths, says Beth Buelow, author of The Introvert Entrepreneur: Amplify Your Strengths and Create Success on Your Own Terms.

“It’s not about becoming a fake extrovert,” Buelow says. “It’s really about acknowledging the valuable traits that introverts bring.”

Here are some of the benefits of being an introvert:

They’re good listeners

Introverts are naturally adept when it comes to actively listening, according to Buelow, who identifies as an introvert herself. “We tend to be the friend or colleague you can call on when you’re upset or you have good news to share,” she says. “We’re going to be able to listen and be with you in that, without turning it around and making it about us.”

Extroverted people are more inclined to jump into a conversation before fully processing what the other person has said. Not because they’re selfish or don’t care, but because they process information interactively, says Dr. Laurie Helgoe, author of Introvert Power: Why Your Hidden Life is Your Hidden Strength.

Conversely, introverts process information internally, Helgoe says. That skill allows them to hear, understand and provide carefully considered insight when they do respond.

They think before they speak

Because introverts typically feel less comfortable speaking than they do listening, they choose their words wisely, according to Buelow. “We only speak when we have something to say, so there is a higher chance that we will have an impact with our words,” she says.

That being said, introverts may take a little too long to formulate their thoughts before sharing them — especially in fast-paced business settings. To combat that tendency, Buelow suggests that introverts should go into meetings prepared to speak first, before there’s time to talk themselves out of it. “Break your own ice,” she says, advising introverts to share a piece of data or an opening remark for the top of the meeting. “Establish your presence early on before the conversation gets thicker and more competitive.”

The skill of choosing your words wisely is just as beneficial online as it is in person. Introverts are more effective on social media because they’re less prone to knee-jerk reactions than extroverts, says Kahnweiler.

“Some people are just throwing thoughts everywhere, randomly posting everything — not introverts,” she says. “There’s a strategy that they take.”

They’re observant

In addition to their superior listening skills, introverts possess what Buelow considers a “superpower”: their observation skills. “We notice things others might not notice because they’re talking and processing out loud,” she says. Although it may look like they’re just sitting quietly during a meeting, introverts are actually soaking in the information that’s being presented and thinking critically.

The typical introvert also uses his or her observant nature to read the room. They’re more likely to notice people’s body language and facial expressions, which makes them better at interpersonal communication, according to Kahnweiler.

Introverts are especially skilled at noticing introvert qualities in others, Kahnweiler says. They can tell when a person is thinking, processing and observing, and then give them the space to do so, which makes people feel much more comfortable, according to Kahnweiler. “They allow time to really connect with people,” she says.

They make quality friends

Since introverts can feel their energy being drained by being around other people — as opposed to extroverts, who gain energy from being with others— introverts choose their friends wisely. They would rather have a few close, trusted friendships to invest their time and energy in, as opposed to a large network of acquaintances, according to Buelow.

“Introverts are pretty picky about who we bring into our lives,” Buelow says. “It requires some energy, and if you do come into our inner circle, that means a lot.”

This quality causes introverts to be loyal, attentive and committed friends, says Buelow.

They make loving romantic partners

Introverts crave personal space to reflect and refuel, and they can sense when their partners need space, too. “Because we have this need for our own privacy, we give that to others as well,” says Buelow. “We won’t be super clingy or high maintenance in relationships.”

And the same qualities that make introverts great listeners also make them great partners, according to Kahnweiler. At the end of a long day, they’re there to listen and support their partner without feeling compelled to talk about themselves.

Introverts also like to get to know someone before sharing intimate details with a prospective partner, and it can make them appear more appealing in the early stages of relationships.

“There can be something attractive about the mystery factor of introverts,” says Helgoe. “That can inspire curiosity and wanting to know the person better.”

They’re thoughtful networkers

Being in a large group where the goal is to meet, talk and make a good first impression can be overwhelming for many — especially for introverts. But Buelow says they can use their natural strengths to create meaningful connections. Extroverts may approach networking events with the goal of talking to as many people as possible, but often, those quick conversations don’t leave lasting impacts, says Buelow.

But Buelow says the strength in networking is not necessarily in numbers. Introverts, she says, should focus on learning about people they meet — even if they only connect with a handful of people.

“I try to make meaningful connections with a couple of people that I can follow up with in some way,” says Buelow. After an event, she’ll send links to articles or speeches that made her think of the person she spoke to. This type of active listening and follow-up can be a lot more beneficial than simply handing out 50 business cards, she says.

They’re compassionate leaders

Helgoe says introverts can make the best leaders — when they channel their natural strengths. For starters, they don’t feel the need to step into the spotlight and take all of the credit for group successes; rather, they are likely to highlight the strengths of their teams, according to Helgoe.

“An extroverted leader may be noticeable, but you may see the leader before you see the team,” Helgoe says. And employees who feel recognized tend to be more motivated, she says.

And since introverts process information more slowly and thoughtfully than their extroverted counterparts, introverted leaders tend to learn more about their subordinates, according to Kahnweiler. They have focused conversations with their team members in order to learn their skills, passions and strengths, according to Kahnweiler. Once they gather all of this information, they can use what they’ve learned to help each team member be more efficient and happier at work.

“People will talk about their favorite managers and they’ll say, ‘They were with me,’” Kahnweiler says. “‘Even if there were more pressing things, I felt like I had their attention. I had their ear.’”

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Benefits of introverts - Passions

Extroversion and introversion are two poles towards which any character tends to a greater or lesser extent. However, due to the fact that it is generally accepted that success in various areas of modern life belongs to extroverts - people who are sociable, active, energetic and generous with emotions - introversion has become a sign of something, if not bad, then definitely gray and deprived. Is it really? Let's see what the real benefits of introverts are.

An extrovert and an introvert are not a bad or a good person, but simply a given given by nature, which can play in your favor in one situation and, conversely, hinder you in another. In addition, pure types are extremely rare, so almost all of us have the beginnings of both. Everything else is just an attitude or a public opinion formed over the years , which, with the realities changing every day, is becoming less and less relevant.

Let's make a reservation right away that before analyzing and evaluating the advantages of introverts or extroverts, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the correct definitions of these psychological types.

Extrovert - a type of personality whose attention is directed to the outside world, to people. He perfectly finds a common language with everyone, can easily organize something, quickly eliminates difficulties.

Introvert - a type of personality whose attention is directed inward, into the world itself. An introvert analyzes the laws according to which some system works (from a person to the universe), he feels bad in large and noisy companies, because they suck energy out of him, an introvert feels better in small groups of people, with calm, filled communication.

As you can see, none of the formulations contain any of the evaluation that people usually ascribe in conversations. Yes, introverts can be boring and downtrodden people, just like extroverts can be unbalanced and unnecessarily eccentric. But all these deviations are only the result of the inharmonious development of the personality.

However, both types have undeniable advantages - what exactly this type is best at achieves the highest results. And knowing this, it becomes unreasonable to attribute success to a certain type of character. Success (in all areas) rather belongs to those who have managed to use the strengths of their character to the maximum and who are able to objectively adopt the good and useful even from the opposite.

That is why today we are talking about the benefits of introverts in the "Take Note" format - for those who attribute themselves to a different "camp".

So what are the advantages of introverts?

Introverts regenerate themselves on their own

This is perhaps one of the most important advantages. We all need vital energy, extroverts easily draw it from the world around us, from its diversity, from communication, from daily social activity. But if something suddenly happens (and something always happens) - problems at work , in the family - then the energy becomes less, and it is already problematic to take it from some resources. Therefore, there is a decline in strength with all the ensuing consequences for life and health.

Introverts practically do not suffer from this, they carry all the vital forces within themselves. Their view of the world, of difficulties allows them to smooth out vital fluctuations and calmly get out of difficult situations.

In addition, extroverts quickly burn out due to their activity, quickly deplete their potential, they need more time to recover. Introverts are insured against this by the regularity and smoothness of their lives.

In other words, introverts are more protected from environmental changes, fluctuations in life do not affect them as much as they affect extroverts.

Take note

Active communication with different people, a vibrant social life gives energy only through redistribution - someone lost, someone gained. Try at least once a week or 2 weeks to find time only for yourself, trying to restore your strength on your own, and not with the help of other people or events.

Introverts are more prone to development

When even the slightest difficulty arises in any area, it is easier for extroverts to remake the environment so as to restore harmony again. Introverts, on the contrary, change this sphere itself, change their attitude, improve their character and their skills.

Of course, both options can be effective and have the right to be, however, when the environment cannot be changed, extroverts have to try on the skin of an introvert, and this is not always easy for the former.

In addition, scientists say that introverts in the modern world tend to have lower self-esteem. But everyone needs to exist in the world equally. Therefore, the belief in their imperfection inspires introverts to more active personal and professional growth.

And, finally, focusing on the inner world more than on the outside leaves no other possibility for introverts: by developing themselves, they change their lives.

Take note

As an experiment, try to solve the difficulty (conflict, problem) that has arisen by changing yourself or your attitude, rather than trying to adjust the person or situation to suit you. Even if you master these techniques. And after all, of course, watch the changes.

By nature, introverts are more sensitive and more vulnerable, but they rarely show it. Oddly enough, but it is this quality that makes them excellent friends and family men. After all, remembering how worried about someone’s accidentally spoken word, an introvert simply will not do this to another person.

For extroverts, everything is decided differently - they said, they quarreled, they found out, they made up. Such disassemblies drain energy from introverts, they don’t need them, so all introverts know the value of such simple things as, for example, “thank you”, “sorry”, and are more inclined to use them. All these problems not only solve, but also prevent their occurrence.

Take note

If you are a pure extrovert, try thanking people more often in your life (even for small things or things that seem to be due). And also find situations in your life when it seemed to you that someone was unreasonably upset or someone misunderstood you and was also upset. Do not try to evaluate it, if you can’t understand it, it’s also not scary. Just, again as an experiment, accept it and help the person. And watch the changes!

Introverts can make an unbiased decision

Extroverts when making decisions are often guided by emotions - their state at the moment of making a decision. These emotions often overshadow not only the mind, but also the ability to consider how you will feel after making this decision.

Introverts are calm, able to make an unpopular decision now, knowing that the future will be better. This helps them make informed decisions, easily refuse unnecessary things - from a chocolate bar to a partner.

Of course, there are also disadvantages. After all, some introverts are very sensitive to their comfort zone and expand it very slowly. Therefore, some possibilities remain simply untouched.

Take note

If you're suffering from emotional decisions, think of a stopcock. For example, if you want to buy something you don't need, wait a day. Or, wanting to be rude to someone, count to 10. A primitive and common technique that everyone often forgets about in the heat of passion.

Introverts can both analyze and make creative decisions equally well

It is believed that a person with a cold analytical mind is not able to produce creative and unusual ideas. The analytical mind is a consequence of perseverance and the desire to deeply understand any issue. And creative solutions and creativity in general are the result of the need for self-expression, which is impossible through the external world.

Needless to say, how much such people are now valued?

Take note

This ability, unfortunately, does not appear through exercises. But if you sometimes take care of yourself, calm your emotions and spend less energy on the outside world, then you will notice how your mind will calm down, and this ability will come by itself.

Introverts have a deeper character

And, as a result, greater psychological stability. Introverts tend to study one thing, but deeply, while extroverts, on the contrary, find interest only in diversity. It's hard to decide which is better, because variety is one of the main advantages in life, which is worth trying!

However, it happens that life puts us in situations where there is nothing special to be happy about, but we need to be happy. That's when introverts take their toll: in such situations, they are able to enjoy small things and find happiness in the depths of the little that life has left now.

Extroverts in such situations tend to either give up everything - even the little that is left, preferring then to start everything from scratch. Or, in such situations, extroverts also adopt some traits from introverts and use their coping methods in very difficult periods.

Take note

Try to carefully understand one thing: a computer program, a book. Or try to relax in a quiet place, enjoying a little - for example, in the country, where there is only fresh air, fire and delicious picnic foods.

As you can see, in a world that is supposed to be dominated by extroverts, introverts can also do very well. The main thing is to know your strengths and use them. So being yourself is good. Better yet, be yourself and grow.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?

5 benefits of introverts

What are the benefits of being thoughtful, introverted and other introverted traits? After reading the book "Introverts" by Susan Cain, we have collected for you five qualities that help introverts achieve success and recognition in society.

Benefit #1: Introverts are humble but incredibly successful leaders

Despite the cult of charismatic extrovert leaders, having them is not the key to a company's success. So, in his sensational bestseller Good to Great, Jim Collins analyzed the activities of the most successful companies and came to the conclusion that they were usually managed by calm, inconspicuous, restrained and even shy leaders, in whose character modesty was combined with professional will.

The success of introverted leaders is due to the ability to listen, lack of desire to dominate, the desire to make the most reasonable decision. They are open to new ideas and suggestions, they know how to properly stimulate subordinates. Introverted leaders are strong in what extroverts lack - in the ability to listen and perceive the suggestions of subordinates.

Benefit No. 2. Introverts are made for the East

Lao Tzu once said:

"He who knows does not speak, and he who speaks does not know"

Western values - courage, activity and sociability - what helps self-expression and self-realization is closer to people with extraverted character traits. In the East, on the contrary, calmness, humility and self-observation are more valued - typically introverted qualities.

Asian cultures use soft power to get what they want. It is steadfastness and perseverance without aggression. The author illustrates this with the words of Mahatma Gandhi:

"By acting gently, you can turn the world upside down. "

Benefit #3. Introverts are extremely productive in a solitary environment

Introverts prefer to work alone. This promotes concentration, focus and saves them from wasting energy.

Advantage No. 4. Introverts are highly sensitive people

Evolution left people not only with high sensitivity as an independent quality, but retained the qualities that are associated with it - caution and a tendency to think.

What is the use of these qualities in terms of evolution?

The habit of thinking ahead helps sensitive people avoid danger and waste of energy. A sensitive nervous system helps to recognize danger well. People of this type prefer to study and analyze all available information.

Benefit #5: Introverts can act like extroverts when the situation calls for it. So, an introvert can take an active part in the work of the parent committee for the sake of the child, arrange a noisy party for the sake of the spouse, put pressure on the opponent for the sake of concluding a lucrative contract.

Introverts who can successfully "pretend" to be extroverts have a trait that psychologists call "self-monitoring." This quality helps them find clues on how to behave correctly and adapt to the requirements of a variety of situations.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that in the modern world it seems that extraverted qualities are more appreciated, the characteristics of introverts are not character flaws. It is important for introverts to identify their strengths and develop them. Yes, introverts can act like extroverts in some situations, but trying too hard to conform to the demands of the extroverted world leads to psychological and health problems. It is important for introverts to know their comfort zone well. In work and study, one should be aware of the dangers of "groupthink" and devote more time to individual work.

We recommend reading our sprint "The Quiet Power of Introverts" to learn the key ideas of the international bestseller "Introverts" by Susan Cain.

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