Introverts are not a separate species in humans, neither is introversion a personality deficiency. It is just that introverts are largely misunderstood for lacking in a few social skill sets where extroverts take away the pie. Introversion is a personality type (just as extroversion or ambiversion is).
An introvert can sometimes come across as socially awkward because their interactions with people are limited and purposefully kept to a bare minimum. When they are forced to participate in a group (team presentations at work, school activities, attending social parties and functions), some of them are prone to suffer from symptoms of social anxiety.
There are many myths surrounding introverts; that they are often misunderstood by family and friends can be attributed to some of these popular but erroneous conceptions about them.
If you are an introvert and would love to learn how to overcome some of those shortcomings of introversion that prevent you from living a better and fuller life — at work and with your loved ones — here are the top picks from Amazon.
1) The Introvert’s Guide to The Workplace: Concrete Strategies for Bosses and Employees to Thrive and Succeed
Author: Thea Orozco
Publisher: Skyhorse
Print Length: 288 pages
Language: English
The book gives actionable tips to introverts to help overcome their social awkwardness at the workplace which can sometimes prove to be a disadvantage in terms of missed opportunities. The author goes on to elaborate on how introverts can leverage their innate skill sets and natural strengths of introversion at work. The book talks about learning to inculcate strong leadership styles and effectively overcoming common issues stemming from introversion like phone phobias and interview anxiety. The book is a lifelong guide for all introverts as it contains practical tips for developing a more assertive personality and learning to make meaningful connections through authentic networking at the workplace.
2) Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Cannot Stop Talking
Author: Susan Cain
Publisher: Crown
Print Length: 368 pages
Language: English
The book is the New York Times bestseller and offers a well-researched, fascinating read. It has had a revolutionizing impact on society and has contributed in a big way to changing the popular perception towards introverts. The book validates the gifts that introverts are naturally born with. It hails the work of celebrated artists and other movers and shakers who have unapologetically been introverts all their lives. Introverts believe in doing their work without making much noise; they despise self-promotion. They are listeners, not speakers. They work best when alone rather than in teams.
The author pens a powerful argument in favor of introverts outlining how much we miss out when we are dismissive of the natural strengths and abilities of introverts who can otherwise bring so much to the table. Our social conditioning prompts us to undervalue and disregard gifted introverts. She delineates the rise of the Extrovert Ideal culture throughout the 20th century which, she believes, has so deeply entrenched into our mindsets to be wary of introverts. The book offers a fierce argument in favor of introverts and mentions successful stories of introverted men and women who spun things around them despite their odds. The author commends the power of introversion and makes a compelling statement when she urges introverts to be more accepting of themselves, dispelling self-doubt.
3) The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why The World Needs You to Be You
Author: Holley Gerth
Publisher: Revell
Print Length: 208 pages
Language: English
The book is a well-researched, profoundly helpful guide for introverts at all times. It defines the powerful, divine qualities that drive and characterize introverts — lovers of solitude, good listeners, excellent power of observation, thinkers and planners, and a preference for quality over quantity in everything (including relationships).
The author draws out the paradoxical traits at the same time — feelings of insecurity, need for comparisons, self-doubt, gripping fears, etc. The book outlines practical and actionable to-dos for introverts to make the most of their lives by being more accepting of themselves, understanding who they are, overcoming their struggles, maximizing their God-given strengths, and living a powerful purpose.
The book further explores introversion in all its nuances — from brain science to the psychological, relational, and spiritual aspects of introverts. In toto, it is an empowering, insightful book for introverts.
4) The Secret Lives of Introverts: Inside Our Hidden World
Author: Jenn Granneman
Publisher: Skyhorse
Print Length: 320 pages
Language: English
The book is a compassionate vindication for those who have been misunderstood, rejected, or ignored all their lives for their introverted traits. The author is a fellow introvert who celebrates the secret inner world of introverts, whilst drawing her assertions from scientific research, and in-depth interviews with experts and other introverts. The book is a fun way of exploring the workings of the inner recesses of an introvert that culminates into actions that do not necessarily border on ‘unsociable’; introverts socialize differently. The book further delves into other aspects of an introvert’s life — relationships, careers, and what it is like being an introvert.
The book is a passionate attempt to understand introverts vis-a-vis others who have always struggled to comprehend them. It talks about how introverts can capitalize on their rich inner resources to thrive in a world different from theirs. The book debunks myths and reveals truths while beseeching introverts to own themselves more fully by working with their inherent nature rather than against it.
5) Quiet Voice Fearless Leader: 10 Principles for Introverts to Awaken The Leader Inside
Author: Terrance Daryl Lee
Print Length: 226 pages
Language: English
It is a game-changing book for all introverts who wish to grow as leaders. It effectively draws a parallel between the expected personality traits of a dynamic leader (outgoing, ambitious, dominant, passionate) and the social labels that introverts struggle with — timid, shy, reserved, and quiet, which become an impediment in their journeys toward growth and success.
The author goes on to present a powerful argument that dismisses the myth that introverts cannot lead. The book does not only debunk myths about introverts but firmly establishes a strong case that in many ways they are the ideal choice for a leader. Implementing the 10 life-changing principles will turn things around for introverts in no time. The underlying message is ‘Your introversion is your superpower.’
