Roxanne left a few days ago after a short, but intense, visit. We finally got to talk to one another, and to listen. Among other things she revealed her therapists description of Roxanne as an introvert, one whose batteries recharge by going within, finding quiet time and space. Coincidentally, in passing the book aisles at CostCo I saw the title, Quiet: The power of introverts in a world that can't stop talking, by Susan Cain. In defining the Introvert, we must not equate introvert with hermit, not the same thing. An introvert "may have strong social skills and enjoy parties and business meetings, but after a while wish they were home in their pajamas….They listen more than they talk, think before they speak, and often feel as if they express themselves better in writing than in conversation…Many have a horror of small talk, but enjoy deep discussions." Where do I fit, probably closer to the introvert than the extrovert, but not 100% in this category, maybe a 45-55 split between the two.
So why is this so important? Because our society is now pushing everyone toward being an extrovert. In school we push team work, group work, sitting in pods, no walls between desks, but not everyone operates that way. Those who don't are left out, set aside, devalued. Yet, check out the major inventors and thinkers and you'll find introverts.
Why is this important for me? Because I'm seeking the message about learning to be myself, learning first who myself is. For a woman who has been a pleaser of parent, husbands, children, society, I'm taking the time to discover and honor me.
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