Summary

The website content advocates for a deeper understanding and acceptance of introverts, emphasizing that they are not inherently flawed or in need of fixing by extroverts.

Abstract

The article titled "INTROVERSION + RELATIONSHIPS" with the headline "Stop Telling Introverts What To Do" is a passionate defense of introversion. It argues that introverts are often misunderstood as needing rescue by their extroverted counterparts, when in fact, they are simply energized by solitude and introspection rather than social interaction. The author, who identifies as an introvert, refutes the notion that introversion is a deficiency or a condition that requires repair, stating that it is a preference for peace and quiet to engage in deep thought. The article criticizes the well-meaning but misguided advice often given to introverts, such as suggestions to engage in more social activities, and emphasizes that introverts are not broken, insecure, or shy, but rather individuals who find comfort and productivity in solitude. The author expresses frustration with tips that cater to extroverts and the societal pressure to conform to extroverted standards of socializing. The piece concludes by affirming that introverts are valuable, thoughtful contributors to society who do not need to change their nature to fit into a noisy and chaotic world.

Opinions

Introverts are energized by personal reflection and find social interactions draining, especially if they are deemed meaningless.
There is nothing inherently negative or indicative of weakness in preferring solitude over social activities.
Introverts are often subjected to unsolicited advice from extroverts, which can be perceived as attempts to "fix" them.
The author feels that their preference for staying home, engaging in solitary activities like reading and yoga, and working alone is misinterpreted as antisocial behavior.
Group work is seen as counterproductive and a way to undermine personal responsibility and trust among peers.
The author expresses a clear dislike for the pressure to attend social gatherings, such as networking events, and feels irritated by the expectation to enjoy them.
Tips aimed at introverts often miss the mark by suggesting activities that cater to extroverted preferences, misunderstanding the introvert's desire for solitude.
Introverts do not require coaching from extroverts to navigate social settings or to stand up to bullies, as they are not inherently awkward or incapable.
The author values meaningful conversations and learning from books over casual chats with strangers, which are not seen as inherently fulfilling.
The piece asserts that introverts are not anti-social but simply not the center of attention at social gatherings, unless the gathering aligns with their interests, such as a book club.

INTROVERSION + RELATIONSHIPS

Stop Telling Introverts What To Do

Introverts don’t need to be rescued by our extroverted friends.

If I could shout it from a mountaintop for the masses to hear, I would.

But I’m afraid of heights, crowded spaces, large birds, the forest, purple, and public speaking.

Introversion is the state of being predominantly interested in personal, whimsical thoughts and opportunities to examine those thoughts uninterrupted.

Carl Jung initially defined introverts as people who are energized by introspection and drained during [meaningless] interactions.

According to psychologists, there isn’t anything negative about being less socially inclined. It is a preference. Being quiet or withdrawn isn’t a sign of weakness or incompetence. Introverts just aren’t typically impressed with the world’s busyness. It’s distracting.

I prefer peace and quiet because I have thoughts to think.

And thinking is a full-time gig.

As an introvert, I feel like I’ve been muted by well-intentioned allies who attempt to speak for all introverts and explain our delightful, refreshing dispositions as deficiencies to be repaired. As symptoms of a deep, underlying condition.

I’m not broken.

I’m not insecure.

I’m not even shy.

I like being at home because home is where the heart is- and my couch is here too.

I like reading, napping, and yoga because all of those beneficial coping exercises rehabilitate my spirit and calm my insatiable mind.

I like working alone because group work is the antithesis of productivity. It’s a mean-spirited, hurtful way to force autonomous people to delegate responsibility to peers they don’t trust.

I prefer my own company because I trust myself. I know myself. I laugh at my own jokes. I finish my own sentences.

There’s nothing wrong with me. I just don’t feel like going out. Don’t shame me for knowing, in advance, that a “networking mixer” isn’t my thing. Don’t shame me for glancing at the time every 15 minutes, when I’m out. I’m easily irritated. I’ve got to get home and get back to thinking.

Introverts are majestic, subtle contributors in an ecosystem of noise and madness.

We’re tired of the trolling.

There’s nothing I hate more than clicking on a link titled 457 Ways to Enjoy the Holidays as an Introvert and realizing Tip #1 is a suggestion for extroverted people.

“Invite 32 of your closest friends over for a quiet game night!”

What part of “I want to be alone but I am not lonely” isn’t comprehensible?

Everybody isn’t fueled by social interaction. For some, being alone is rejuvenating. Being in the company of one other person and a puppy is a party.

Helping an introvert by suggesting she become an extrovert isn’t helpful. It’s insensitive.

Introverts are not hiding in an anti-friendship fortress of isolation waiting for charming extroverts to teach us how to stand up to bullies and thrive in social settings.

I’m not awkward or incapable. I’m just minding my own business.

Social settings aren’t that hard to navigate. Having casual conversations with strangers isn’t mind-boggling. It just isn’t necessarily fulfilling.

When I read a book, I’m guaranteed to walk away with new information. When I talk to a human, things could go either way.

I’m not anti-social, per se. I’m just not the life of the party.

Unless the party is a book club.