I am grateful for Susan Cain and her book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.
As I read Quiet I learned a lot about myself, the way I think, and why I usually dislike being in public (especially large crowds). The best thing of all, though, is that I learned to accept that that’s who I am. For a long time I struggled because I wasn’t as “outgoing” as I should have been. I enjoy spending time by myself. Reading, tinkering, thinking, even doing nothing is what I love to do.
This was especially true as I participated in a 2 year mission for my church where I was expected to approach complete strangers and invite them to develop a better relationship with Jesus Christ. I hated going door to door. I hated approaching people on the street. It’s not because I don’t love Jesus. Not because I didn’t have enough faith. Not because I didn’t love the people I was meeting. Because I’m an introvert. I don’t have a salesperson mentality or personality.
I’ve loved being able to work from home and just be around my family. Sometimes I miss being in an office environment and the closer friendships that offers, but the frequency and length of meetings just left my mentally exhausted. My previous job was moving towards an “open” office space. I could hardly think of a worse working environment for me. As I write this, I’m alone in my office with headphones on. I’m in a state of flow.
I’m grateful that I no longer feel like I’m not good enough because I’m an introvert. I’m grateful to be more comfortable with me.