I want to recognize all the amazing introverts who have modeled this so brilliantly. Thank you!
I know it sounds crazy, but here’s my thought. I’ve noticed that many EXtroverts are amazingly engaging, wonderful people. They do not have to think before they attend a social event about how they will spend their time, they just go and enjoy the people. This character trait is a blessing – to them and all the introverts they help put at ease.
On the other hand, a mature introvert thinks before they enter a room full of people. Once they get past the negative barrage of thoughts, they might begin to think things like, “What is my purpose at this function? Who will I spend my time with? What can I say when there is a lull in conversation? Of course the self talk varies from person to person and event to event. The point is that mature introverts are purposeful about their interactions and often make the exact impression they wish to leave because they have thought through how they want to present themselves. This is powerful!
When an introvert realizes that one of their main purposes in the world is to be light where there is darkness they begin to see the uncomfortable moments as opportunities. This time of year can be chalk full of social engagements so I thought the subject timely.
As for me, I don’t classify fully as either an introvert or extrovert. Depending on the situation I can have an overwhelming sense of deja vu and the extreme shyness and self consciousness of my childhood comes flooding over me. I hate it when this happens! So, I am challenging myself to be a mature introvert – to be purposeful, using the power I’ve been given, to bring love, joy, peace, kindness and goodness to all and to begin viewing uncomfortable situations as opportunities to bless people. Adopting this mentality helps take the panic away, is rewarding and makes life a lot more pleasant.
Hope you’ll join me and enjoy the holiday season bringing light wherever you go.