The Common Misconception of Introversion and the Importance of Solitude at Work

I was both surprised and skeptical when I received the book ‘Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking’ written by Susan Cain from my partner. My first thought ran along the lines of "I am sure you do not think I am an introvert, do you?" I remember a conversation with a person who is more practiced in self-awareness, this person agreed on my belief of me being an extrovert. But what if both of us had only a vague understanding of Introversion?

71 pages later I began to question my understanding of how an extrovert or introvert can be described. 276 pages later I knew for sure: my understanding of Introversion has been shaped misleadingly by dimensions like communication and sociality. I did not consider the need for a different stimulation, including social, to be the primary dimension. However, I felt this book described a part of my personality I have recognized, but certainly not associated with Introversion.

How to differentiate Introversion from Extroversion

According to Cain, the difference between Introversion and Extroversion is the level of stimulation both find optimal. An extrovert tends to obtain gratification outside oneself, for instance through social gatherings like working in groups. The opposite applies to introverts, typically they need a quieter environment to recharge. Neither communication nor sociability is directly related to Introversion. A common mistake is to attribute shyness to Introversion, too. Introverts do not fear encounters with others but they recharge faster when alone. The stimulation preference also depends on the environment a person is in, for example professional or private. A person can behave as an extrovert at work, but as an introvert at home.

Cain further states that Western cultures tend to be biased against introverts. While I agree with her statement, it will take time until this bias is widely acknowledged and acted upon. This conclusion leads to the question of how to incorporate her findings into today's professional life.

Solitude

Knowing, tolerating and speaking about the different needs for stimulation is the first step in the right direction. A piece of advice I like to give to other introverts is to take time off for yourself. For instance, by reserving time in your calendar to retreat to a quiet(er) environment - to seek solitude. Besides being able to recharge during this time, research suggests that solitude is also a competitive advantage in today's distracted world.

If you have managerial responsibility, ask your employees if they feel drained after having long social interactions. Their reply will give you an indication of their stimulation preference. Another approach is to discuss with them how they like to recharge. This allows you to build an empathetic relationship and ensures that your employees know that retreating to a quieter location during work is encouraged.

Summing up, introverts and extroverts are defined by the level of stimulation each personality requires. While Western cultures are prone to Extroversion it is important to discuss and highlight the needs of introverts too, thus ensuring we use their full potential. This is especially true in today's war for talent in which companies need the skills of each employee to preserve their competitive advantage.