I’m interested to hear some of the community’s thoughts regarding introversion and hopefully encourage a healthy discussion.

I was directed to a personality test recently (via IRC), and unsurprisingly my results showed 94% introversion.

I’m now in my mid-twenties, but during my teenage years I was very conscious about my introverted nature and decided to delve deep into myself. Initially, I viewed it as a barrier and a terrible hindrance; an incurable, ghastly limb that needed to be severed whilst I was still young and had a chance.

One of the biggest lessons I learned was that there is a difference between shyness and introversion. I was plagued with extreme shyness. Shyness is a rotten curse. It’s only endearing if you are a child or a woman, but fortunately, it can be overcome.

On the other hand, I found my issues surrounding introversion stemmed from ignorant extroverts. This concern can be eradicated by an IDGAF mentality. I do what I want. I’m not ashamed of being an introvert, but at the same time I’m willing to suppress my urge for solitary time in order to accept an invite to a party. It’s about self-discipline, control and balance.

Negative connotations do exist, but they are largely misconceptions, in my opinion.

I consider the following common introverted traits beneficial to TRP (of course, they are not exclusive):

  • Interested in self-knowledge and self-understanding
  • Self-aware and observant
  • Not impulsive
  • Private with emotions
  • Not dependent on others for stimulation
  • Headstrong and individual