This week is all about happiness at work, but if you ask me, that is also important for the other 51 weeks of the year. As an introvert, there are a few important things that can contribute to your happiness at work. To what extent do you find this reflected in your work?
Room for thought
Introverts think before they speak and like to see things from multiple perspectives. As a result, it usually takes longer for them to speak compared to extroverts. They think and speak at the same time. The extent to which you are given the space for this at work is very decisive for your happiness at work. Are you given the space to form your ideas, or are you forced to participate in quick brainstorms? And is there room for silence, or is it immediately filled up by someone else? It is good to reflect on this and to share it with your colleagues. This makes it easier for them to take this into account.
Time to recharge
An introvert is more sensitive to external stimuli than an extrovert and needs time alone to recharge. This is of course a lot more difficult in a busy office space than in a smaller office. Does your company have spaces where you can be alone and organize your thoughts? Or is the toilet the only place where you can think undisturbed for a while? And is it possible to sometimes work from home, so that you can create your own recharging moments?
Clear boundaries
Introverts usually avoid conflict, because it costs them a lot of energy. They prefer to seek a compromise, but that sometimes goes beyond their own boundaries. Therefore, be clear about what you want and where your boundaries lie. If someone threatens to cross them, don't be afraid to say something about it. Otherwise the other person might get used to it and will do this more often. And of course you can do this in a way that suits you, which does not have to be confrontational.
Work undisturbed
Introverts need fewer external stimuli and therefore find it easier to work on something for a longer period of time. This allows them to go into depth and quickly learn a lot about a particular topic. It makes many introverts real experts. To be able to do this, it is important that you are not disturbed at work. Not always easy when you're surrounded by extroverts who like to interact. Clearly indicate that you want to concentrate for a while and, for example, make an appointment to catch up at a later time. That way you now have full attention on your work and later on that colleague.
Real contact
Although introverts seek fewer stimuli, that certainly does not mean that they are not social. On the contrary, an introvert is very interested in other people and likes to go into depth. If you're wondering where the hell to start during a drink or a networking event, realize there isn't one right way to do this. It's okay to talk to just a few people and really go into depth with them. You often notice quickly enough whether the other person is open to that. And once you go deep, you can surprise the other with all the facts that you can effortlessly share.
