Ignore the INFJ thing. After more research into the individual functions, I discovered that I was an INFP instead. I'll be covering that in future posts.
I just want to briefly discuss what introversion is. This is mostly fueled by the spotlight on Susan Cain, who just published a bestselling book on introversion, and which I have only skimmed part of on Amazon.com. She also recently gave a TED talk about the benefits of introversion.
What introversion is not:
- shyness
- being antisocial
- hating people
- snobbery
The simplest definition of introversion is getting energy from solitude, quiet and solitary activities. Reading, writing, gardening, knitting, etc. are all introverted activities.
Introverts are more stimulated by socialization and so need time alone to recharge. Then we go out and fulfill our socializing requirements. (Of course, not all introverts want to be social and they may hate being around people, but there is a stereotype about introverts being shy, anti-social, people-hating snobs.)
There are social introverts and shy introverts. There are also shy extroverts and social extroverts.
Introverts can be found in all walks of life. They are teachers, waiters, salespeople, lawyers, accountants and preachers. They are spouses, parents, singles. They are everywhere, even in an extroverted society like the US.
Another thing about introverts are that their discoveries have led to the progression and entertainment of society. Isacc Newton, Albert Einstein, Harper Lee, Bill Gates, Audrey Hepburn, and Julia Roberts are just among many of the introverts who have used their gifts to the world.
Introverts are the deep thinkers, the scientists, the artists, the writers and the philosophers. They are often the ones who question society or create things that improve society as a whole.
In other words, don't underestimate introverts.
Susan Cain's lecture
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yyeJ1jaGDU
