Qualities of an Introvert

Introverts are the most misunderstood people ever. Some people think they are shy. That misconception is understandable since introverts like to think before they speak. Others think introverts are emotionless. Typically, introverts internalize their feelings and act on them later when they are alone. Lastly, others think they hate socializing. In actuality, they can socialize with strangers in moderation. As for the friends who get them, they are more than happy to spend a lot of time with them.

There are many more qualities that introverts possess, and we will identify them. By identifying their qualities, you will understand how to interact with them.

They Prefer Deep Conversations to Surface-Level Ones

There are varying reasons why introverts love deep conversations. First, deep conversations promote intellectual stimulation by allowing the sharing of perspectives and the discussions of thought-provoking topics. Besides stimulating their minds, deep conversations allow introverts to connect with others. Since introverts value honesty, deep conversations allow them to be vulnerable with others.

When interacting with an introvert, do not focus on the usual boring topics such as the weather or how their week was. Such topics tend to halt conversations before they begin. However, you could discuss about the weather in a way that makes it mind-blowing.

They Love Some Alone Time

It is easy to conclude that introverts are antisocial due to their preference of solitude. However, introverts like to be alone after interacting all day. Therefore, being alone helps them to recharge their social batteries. Also, being alone helps the introvert tap into their inner creativity. The introvert may express themselves creatively by drawing, painting or playing an instrument.

Some people love to visit others spontaneously. However, introverts hate surprise visits. They view the visits as trespassing. Therefore, it is important to call or text them before visiting. Of course, you should give a reasonable notice. For instance, you cannot call them saying you are visiting today. You should give at least a three-day notice. Giving them a sufficient notice prepares the introvert psychologically for social interactions.

They Prefer Small Groups to Large Ones

In most organizations, teamwork is highly valued. As a result, your boss may make you work with a large team. Unfortunately, introverts are not particularly fond of working with big groups. In a large group, the introvert will be unable to have deep conversations with others. That is because other group members may interact with each other and exclude the introvert. As a result, the introvert may be unable to raise an important issue to the group.

Different introverts have different requirements for what makes a group small. I would wager that they love being a group consisting of 2-5 members. With the small group, the introvert’s voice can be heard. Also, introverts love small groups because they can listen to each member well. That is because there will be fewer distractions from too many people speaking in a large group.

They are Detail-Oriented

Introverts like to observe their environment and other people’s behaviors. By continually observing things and people, they can notice certain details that others may not perceive. However, they can only observe better in a relatively quiet environment. Besides paying attention to what is around them, they reflect on their observations. As a result, they can think deeply enough and come up with unique ways of handling a problem.

Having a detail-oriented introvert in your organization is extremely beneficial. First, they tend to be punctual. That is because they enjoy starting new projects which challenge them to be attentive to details. Also, detail-oriented employees know how to organize their tasks properly. They do that by making lists and schedules.

They are Good Listeners

Have you ever been annoyed with a person who kept zoning out while talking to them? Thankfully, this is not a problem you will experience with introverts since they are great listeners. First, introverts tend to be empathetic and understanding. Therefore, they understand how it would feel if you talked while no one was listening. Also, being empathetic enables them to get all sides of the story before making any conclusions. That means you do not need to worry about them judging you.

Another factor that makes them good listeners is their ability to focus for extended periods. Due to their ability to concentrate much longer, they are unlikely to be distracted by external stimuli. However, for better listening, a quiet place is still preferable.

They Love Independence

Earlier, we established how introverts do well in small groups. However, they are more effective as employees when they work independently. Independence gives the introvert the ability a sense of control, something you cannot get from a group. In a group, some members are likely to get things done due to depending on other people. Also, independence allows the introvert to make their own decisions. As for the group, you cannot make any decisions without getting the approval of other members.

Independence also provides the introvert with a chance to recharge their social batteries. That is because they do not have to be around other people all the time. When you are with others in a group, you naturally feel the pressure to say something. Guess what; introverts hate talking for the sake of it unless you are having a deep conversation with them?

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article helped you understand introverts better. Non-introverts tend to lose their patience with them due to exhibiting traits they may consider undesirable e.g. solitude or independence. However, you should understand that introversion is a natural trait. Therefore, you cannot change how introverts usually act.

Introverts are not always these boring, shy people. In fact, you can end up being friends with an introvert who behaves just like an extrovert. If that is the case, it would mean the person is comfortable around you. Now that we have talked about introverts, we will discuss about extroverts in a later article.