Yo. Introvert in the house.
Which means I’m so excited to break into Susan Cain’s new book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.
As I was poking around Cain’s website, I came across her “Manifesto” . Here are a few of my favorite (manifests?):
Solitude is a catalyst for innovation.
The next generation of quiet kids can and should be raised to know their own strength.
Sometimes it helps to be a pretend-extrovert. There’s always time to be quiet later.
But in the long run, staying true to your temperament is the key to finding work you love and work that matters.
Everyone shines, given the right lighting. For some, it’s a Broadway spotlight, for others, a lamp lit desk.
Rule of thumb for networking events: one genuine new relationship is worth a fistful of business cards.
It’s OK to cross the street to avoid making small talk.
Love is essential, gregariousness is optional.
“Quiet leadership” is not an oxymoron.
Cain’s Manifesto reminded me of the common introvert misconceptions I wrote about in my post, Debunking the Top 5 Myths About Introverts:
- Introverts don’t make good leaders.
- Introverts aren’t good networkers.
- Introverts are shy.
- Introverts don’t like people.
- Introverts would rather work alone.
Nuh-uh! [Wave your finger as you say it.]
Now go high-five an introvert and tell her she’s awesome.
Marta Steele is a partner at PeopleResults. Follow her on Twitter @MartaSteele.
