I am reading this book by Susan Cain Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking and realizing more an more how much of an introvert I actually am. Or, as she labels my type, a pseudo-extrovert.
We see ourselves as a nation of extroverts- which means that we’ve lost sight of who we really are…Extroversion is an enormously appealing personality style, but we’ve turned it into an oppressive standard to which most of us feel we must conform…
Now that you’re an adult, you might still feel a pang of guilt when you decline a dinner invitation in favor of a good book. Or maybe you like to eat alone in restaurants and could do without the pitying looks from fellow diners. Or you’re told that you’re ‘in your head too much,’ a phrase that’s often deployed against the quiet and cerebral.
Of course, there’s another word for such people: thinkers.
That is interesting! When I was doing alternative solutions for my allergies I went to a naturalist in Pleasanton. He did all sorts of tests on me and he told me I was an introvert. That I wasn’t shy just introverted. I had taught myself for years to be an extrovert so I would be noticed. One of things he said to me was when I am out being an extrovert it takes me a long time to be “alone” so that I can get rejuvenated. That being around people zaps my energy but being alone, reading a book or relaxing by myself gives me energy. Does she talk anything about that?
That’s EXACTLY what she talks about. You should read it!