Embracing Introversion: Navigating the Path to Balance

Dear Diary,?

Today I was reflecting on my journey as a Scrum Master and how far I have truly come. The most significant challenge I've faced in this line of work has been overcoming introversion. For many, the idea of leading a team and facilitating meetings may seem daunting. However, as I have come to realize, introversion possesses inherent strengths, yet also offers opportunities for growth, ultimately contributing to a more balanced personality that combines elements of both extroversion and introversion.?

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Being in a role that challenges me has played a pivotal role in my journey. It has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, expand my skillsets, and gradually diminish my introverted tendencies. As I navigate the complexities of leading a team, I've learned to embrace the discomfort and lean into the opportunities for growth that come with it.?

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When I first started as a Scrum Master, I entered group meetings such as the daily standup with clammy hands, my heart beating out of my chest and a script to read off of. I dreaded those meetings every morning. I had nightmares about losing my train of thought and sounding “dumb” in front of a group. I wrestled with the familiar feelings of self-doubt and uncertainty. Will I be able to effectively lead the team? Can I overcome my introverted nature? Can I even do this job??

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As soon as I clicked the “end call" button, I would make a loud sigh of relief and feel completely drained. This occurred meeting after meeting and by the end of the workday I was too drained to do anything. I needed hours to decompress and gain my energy back. This is very common in the world of introverts.

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As I reflect now, I cannot remember the exact moment when something switched for me. Overtime, meetings got easier to handle. I noticed my heartbeat steadying as I joined the teams' calls. My need for a script to direct the meeting diminished. I gained a confidence in group settings that I had never experienced before. I was actually energized by the end of my first meeting of the day and looked forward to the next.?

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Fast forward to now - I find myself actively listening to the insights and concerns of my team members and I feel empowered to offer my guidance and support where needed. I facilitate open and honest discussion about our team's successes and areas for improvement. I find myself speaking up with confidence, sharing my thoughts and observations with the team. The phrase “Can we park that for now and discuss after the standup” is second nature!?

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With all this being said, I do undoubtedly still need my time of solitude to recharge and reflect. I prioritize doing some sort of exercise alone midday to help me to recharge. I try to avoid blocks of meetings (where I can) to give myself breaks to review the next meeting notes and feel comfortable and confident. I try to always center and ground myself on my core values as a Scrum Master and servant leader.?

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By embracing my introversion as a source of strength and remaining receptive to expanding my skill sets and embracing moments of extroversion, I've evolved into a well-rounded individual who embodies both qualities in a healthy balance. If it were not for this role, I am not sure I would have made these strides as quickly and effectively as I have!?

Talk soon,

?Love, Taylor?