Please take 20 minutes, follow the link below and watch Susan Cain's presentation:
It has been a while since I have blogged, and to be honest, it is largely due to facts of my life that are not included in introversion.
However, I will not start this blog, belaboring issues, which do not pertain to the above link, or the proposed topic.
I found Cain's perspective quite interesting. I believe her topic, by nature, made her out to slightly be an apologist for introverts (a people that might very well need one); however, her presentation was well balanced and thoughtful.
The mere delivery screamed introvert within minutes of its start. But, the beauty of the presentation was not it her delivery, but in her articulation of complex ideas. This is a trait, not solely attributed to introverts, but often attributed.
Now I am not here to critique her presentation. But as I scrolled through some of the comments posted on Ted.com, I realized the complexities of the debate. The truth is, no matter where you fall, it can be clearly seen we live in a culture, dictated and polarized by the charismatic. We see this in politics, sports, education, advertising, sales, and even the church.
I recently watched a documentary entitled, "Expelled". I would encourage anyone to watch this. Although the overall topic is unrelated (Intelligent Design vs. Darwinism Evolution) the concluding point cannot be correlated enough. The documentary concluded with a point: although they (makers of documentary) did not advocate one over the other, they did show throughout the presentation that Intelligent Design has no credence in the world of academia or scholarly conversation.
I would not propose it is exactly the same as Introversion and Extroversion, but, one side by its very nature takes precedence over the other. Whereas I do not believe an extrovert/all extroverts are to "blame" for this, I do believe realizing we live in a world that is drawn to characteristics more often found in extroverts. For it is this very reason we unknowingly advocate an extroverted lifestyle, where to some it fits perfectly and to others it is to their detriment.
I am an introvert. One, who has struggled many times with my "introvert identity". Going into a profession such as ministry, you are often compared to the charismatic orators; the dynamic leaders; and the expressive evangelists.
I have often been overlooked in ministry/interviews/activities... I of course, like many other introverts have some extroverted qualities, which at times can make it appear I am outgoing. However, my true state and natural self, enjoys quite solitude.
I have often been asked: Why don't you react this way? Why are you so composed?
At the time, I had no answer. But now, looking back I suppose I appear composed on the outside because I react on the inside. I would imagine for an extrovert reading this, it is probably getting confusing right now. But I would also venture a guess most introverts not only hear but resonate.
So in conclusion: If you are an extrovert regularly in relationship with introverts I have several insights that may or may not be of help.
1) Take into consideration, at times your "extrovertedness" expressions can result/bring out the "introvertedness" in your friends or family. 2) You may get easily frustrated with your friend/families quietness, but I encourage you, although it would be easy for you to dominate the conversation, use your extrovertedness to invite the introvert to share. 3) Although you react to situations differently, please understand that an introvert is probably reacting the same way! just not expressing it in the same light.
If you are an introvert regularly in relationship with extroverts. I have several insights that may or may not be of help.
1) Take into consideration, at times your "introvertedness" brings out the "extrovertedness" in your family and friends. 2) You may FEEL stifled and overpowered, but remember, your extroverted friends/family are just reacting the way that suits them best. I encourage you, to fight through those feelings and realize the good intentions/personality paradigm. 3) Remember, that you may not feel the need to speak up, or share your heart... but 9 times out of 10, your friends/family are there because they want to hear you when you speak.
Above all, we are different. Love is not only admiring each other for our differences but accepting each other in spite of them. Realizing our differences add depth that at the outset was never seen...
