Reflections on Introverts and how to love them
Quiet. Reserved. Observer. Withdrawn.
These are words I have used to describe myself. But because of them, I have also been
Unseen. Unheard.
Defining ourselves limits us. We retell the stories and solidify the myths.
The myths.
The world is a crazy place. I don’t want to engage.
People just don’t understand me.
If I speak up, I will come across as not having a filter, and I don’t want to be judged.
I know things and see things but others aren’t interested.
I’m not subservient, just quiet.
I’m humble.
The truths.
Yes, the world is crazy, but crazy needs our gifts.
Maybe not all people will understand me, and that is ok.
You can curate your thoughts into an inspired voice.
Others are interested, and you are here to share your gift.
You come across as subservient because you don’t speak up. This must change.
Humility is a mask you wear
to protect yourself from the fear of not being understood or accepted.
Introverts - you have a voice. You have special gifts (just like everyone). The world needs you to speak up. Yes, you can retreat and you need solitude because it nourishes you, AND we can be IN the world - engaging, provocative, and embodying inspired action and still be nourished. We no longer need to use the excuse that we need alone time. We do. AND we need to share our ideas, dreams, and love. Let’s speak up and ripple our change into the world. The ripple effect starts with you.
And for those who love us. Give us space. Encourage our voice. We may need a moment to gather our thoughts. The silence doesn’t mean we don’t have them. The silence has been a learned behavior, one that can change, IF we have the love in our lives holding the container for us to show up and be seen. And then the magic happens because when we are shining, so will you. Inspired thought. Inspired voice. Inspired action. Inspired movement.