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Introverts And Socializing: It’s Often Not A Good Match
But sometimes you’ll leave an event feeling good like I did last night.
I’ve known for years that I’m an introvert. Growing up, I was shy. Rarely did I participate in class discussions in middle and high school. Although when called upon, I knew the answer. I followed directions, did my work, and keep my head down. My grades and achievements were my rewards, not my popularity.
I had a small group of friends in high school and college. Going out to football games, bars, and parties was usually something I did with only one or two other people.
I was quiet, often afraid to speak my mind. I did any job I had well, again afraid to make waves or be seen as incompetent. Being quiet does not equate to that.
Among the jobs I’ve had, I’ve been told I possess leadership qualities. And, I believe I do. But, I’m not a good manager because I’d rather do the job myself and know that it’s done right. I found that out at my last job at a local land trust when I had to rely on other people to organize and manage large events. I know I should have spoken up more often in that job and if I had, maybe I would not have had to resign. It was a job for a more assertive and gregarious person, not one who tends to be cerebral.
