Introvert Power

Introvert Power This above all, to thine own self be true. William Shakespeare We live in a society where being an extrovert is applauded and mirrored in books, movies, television shows and life in general. We admire those who are "gutsy" and "step up" to the challenge but there is a myriad of positives associated with the introverted personality. Interestingly enough, most major problem solvers happen to be introverts. They have the uncanny ability to utilize the area of the brain that allows for complex thinking. Problem solving becomes their quiet yet powerful strength. Introspection works for them when channeled properly. Contrary to popular believe, the introvert is not shy, withdrawn or anti-social. The brain is simply activated by different types of activity. Where social interaction activates the extrovert, solitary activity works to energize the introvert. When one becomes aware of and accepting of their own personality type, it allows them a true sense of relief. They are able to accept their own nature and use it to their best advantage, rather than constantly trying to change what comes naturally. It's basically knowing yourself and accepting who you are, rather than comparisons to others. This is a great stress reliever. It is also a release from trying to remake who you are and going against the grain. Self Acceptance goes a long way: Allow yourself the quiet solitude you often crave. Never feel guilty about who you are or what fuels your own energy. Where a riotous party may nourish a friend's temperament, it may create a great deal of agitation over enjoyment in your estimation. Good company, stimulating conversation and quiet atmosphere may be what feeds your head. A good book may be your energizing trigger. Accepting this is the key to inner peace. Trying to change it only produces tension, stress and ultimately you wind up accepting yourself and your own nature anyway. We always return to our true selves when given the chance. Deal with problems in your own way. If you are not one to hash it out, in a face to face screaming match, then use your intellect and work out the more affable solution your own way. Not everyone experiences the great release that screaming affords the "in your face" confrontational beings. Seek out similar friends. Yes, opposites often attract but it is also true that similar personalities share similar pleasures. Those who do not enjoy a constant whirlwind of activity often share similar energy levels. Why not seek out those who bring out the best in you. These are your "power people." These are the people who are content living in your world, happily enjoying a less turbulent atmosphere. This does, by no means, signify boring or uninteresting. It is merely a lesser degree of chosen chaos for those who are overstimulated by outside stimuli. It is a fact, that most introverts are quite reactive to outside stimuli. A quiet meal in a calm atmosphere seems to soothe and appeal to this individual, rather than a chaotic dinner theater filled with clambering tourists. This is merely how one is wired. It is not bad nor good, but merely a preference one is most comfortable with, a choice and a way to nurture one's true self. If you happen to be one of these individuals and have spent most of your life wondering why you may be slightly different from friends or relatives, it's time to not only accept your individuality but celebrate it as well. You are the individual who is most likely an analytical thinker, an understanding listener and a perfectionist. You sort things out internally until they work for you. You have the ability to solve problems rationally without dramatizing, although you would most preferably avoid confrontation. You are the quiet, good-natured son or daughter who is satisfied with close friends, interesting conversation and one on one relationships. This does not mean you cannot enjoy a little risk taking from time to time, an occasional bout of partying until the wee small hours of the morning or attending that rock concert with some of your more extroverted friends. It does mean that your personality generally prefers a smaller crowd, quieter restaurants and the company of similar folks. It is important to live a life that embraces your own true nature. Never feel it must be remedied. The payoff of being real is true happiness. Self acceptance breaks the chains of social demands. It advances one into a fulfilling lifestyle, taking into consideration one's true nature and comfort levels.