Introverts of the World, Unite!

Some people are just born salespersons. They could sell ice cubes to Eskimos.

Then there are people like this writer. I usually end up giving away things at yard sales because I can’t convince people to buy them.

According to a book I read, salesmanship often is a matter of personality, extrovert verses introvert. Having done a little research on personality types, I’ve learned that being an introvert isn’t necessarily a liability.

The quiet people among us have made significant contributions to our world. These include Albert Einstein (E=mc²), the composer Chopin, author George Orwell, Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss of The Cat in the Hat books), even Larry Page, inventor of Google.

The problem came when our American culture began encouraging aggressive, outgoing personality traits in the early part of the twentieth century.

Advertising touted bold behavior. Educational psychologists labeled quiet, introverted students as potentially troubled.

We were trained that in order to become successful in society, we had to become almost party animals.

Successful people-- from corporation executives to presidents of the United States-- became notoriously absent of reclusive character traits.

So, where does that leave us, the one-third to one-half of the population who prefer staying home and curling up with a book?

Not feeling guilty! According to research, introverted people are the thinkers in our world, the ones who analyze information thoughtfully before jumping in with both feet.

We function well without sleep, practice delaying gratification, and quietly go about our business while the extroverted people snatch the limelight.

Most introverts are okay with that. If it weren’t for the extroverts among us, who would carry the conversations at parties while the rest of us sit in corners, watching them?

In fact, I depend on my extrovert husband to do most of the talking when we’re together in public. It gives me opportunity to engage in my favorite sport--people watching. And that gives me fodder to write about each week.

So, if you’re one of us introverts, take heart. You’re in good company. Leave the sales jobs to your outgoing friends.

Oh, and would you like to buy a bridge? My extroverted husband has one for sale.

How about you? Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Don't forget to comment below.