There are quite a few misunderstandings about introversion. That all introverts are shy, for example, or that they are all afraid of being on stage. This is because extroverts look at the introvert from their own perspective and misjudge the introvert. However, you can get rid of those misunderstandings by reframing them. The five biggest misunderstandings on introversion.

1 Introverts are shy

Introversion is (largely) innate, while shyness has to do with unpleasant past experiences that make you feel uncomfortable when you find yourself in a similar situation again. Shyness is therefore easily solved, while introversion is really part of who you are as a person. Of course there are shy introverts, but there are at least as many introverts who are not. And in addition, there are also shy extroverts. Perhaps that is even more difficult, as extroverts actively seek out others. Shyness can really get in their way.

2 Introverts are not social

In short, introversion is about getting energy from yourself. This, in contrast to extraversion, where the energy comes from contact with others. For some, that difference has led to introverts being seen as non-social. However, that is far from the truth, since every person needs personal contact. With an introvert, that need simply looks different. Where the extrovert likes meetings with a lot of people and quick contacts, an introvert prefers to go deeper in a small group. You could call it a difference between quantity and quality.

3 Introverts are arrogant

Large social gatherings can be difficult for introverts. They provide a lot of stimulation, make it difficult to talk to someone one-on-one and the conversations are usually not that thorough. That sometimes prevents you from making contact with others or from getting involved in a discussion. That behavior can then be interpreted as arrogance: after all, you show no interest in the other. To avoid this misunderstanding, it is good to be open about the fact that you feel less at ease at such a meeting. For your own energy it is sometimes better to skip them every now and then. Also make sure that you communicate clearly about this, so that this is not seen as arrogance either.

4 Introverts are silent

In introverts, the thought process precedes the decision to speak. In extroverts, these two processes run simultaneously. For that reason, introverts are often overtaken by extroverts, who simply open their mouths earlier. Do you notice that you don't get enough space to give your input? Then ask for some time and space so that you can also have your say. When it comes to a topic that is close to your heart, you will see that you will have a lot to say as soon as you get the space to do so.

5 Introverts don't want attention

Basically, every person wants to be seen, whether you are an introvert or an extrovert. It is especially the spontaneous aspect that makes it difficult to suddenly get all the attention: the pressure of having to immediately answer a question or the request to give a spontaneous presentation. If there is time to prepare, introverts are often very good and substantive speakers. Stage fright is therefore not reserved for introverts. This is mainly due to our own inner critic who tells you that you should not do something. Although it can be very strong within introverts, extroverts certainly struggle with it as well.

Do you want to know more about introversion and how to deal with your challenges as an introvert? In my training The Power of Introversion I tell you all about it.