Navigating the introvert's dilemma: finding balance between solitude and recognition
Sam Sheppard ?
Personal Branding for Introverts | Helping companies nurture their introverted talent for a more inclusive workplace | Keynote Speaker | Corporate Facilitator | Consultant | Coach
Introverts in the workplace can often be unseen, unheard and unacknowledged due to the extrovert bias.
Our louder colleagues are more likely to be noticed and, in meetings, it's those who speak the most who often get perceived as bringing the most value, even if they aren't saying anything of note.
Extroverts are more likely to be promoted and hired for leadership positions.
This can create a paradoxical struggle for introverts: we want to avoid the limelight, remain quiet and enjoy our solitude but we're also human and, on some level, yearn for acknowledgement and recognition.
So what can we do about this?
Here are 10 tips to help you overcome this struggle and find the sweet spot:
1. Embrace Your Authentic Self:
Recognise that your introverted nature is a fundamental part of who you are. Lean in and embrace your quiet strengths and values, rather than trying to conform to extroverted ideals.
Authenticity is magnetic – when you show up as your true self, people are more likely to acknowledge and value your genuine contributions.
2. Define Your Goals and Values:
Clarity about your personal goals and values can help you channel your energies effectively. When you're clear about what matters most to you, you can seek recognition in areas that align with your passions.
This targeted approach can lead to a more meaningful acknowledgment rather than simply seeking attention for the sake of it.
3. Cultivate Strong Connections:
Quality over quantity applies to friendships too. Nurture relationships with people who appreciate and understand your introverted nature. These connections will offer genuine recognition without forcing you into uncomfortable situations.
4. Communicate Your Needs:
It's okay to express your desire for acknowledgment to those around you. Open communication can bridge the gap between your introverted tendencies and your need for recognition.
Let others know how they can acknowledge your efforts in ways that are comfortable for you. This is an especially important conversation to have if you have a line manager.
5. Champion Your Achievements:
While introverts might not be naturally inclined to boast, there's nothing wrong with highlighting your accomplishments. After all, it's not bragging if it's based on facts, right? ??
Share your successes modestly, focusing on the journey and the lessons learned. This can not only earn you recognition but also inspire others. You all may have seen about how I've been challenging myself weekly to share testimonials and feedback; that's the path I've taken because whilst I still feel resistance, challenging myself this way is a form of accountability and I've found reading this content actually helps others.
If you have a line manager, letting them know what you've done and achieved can be really helpful to both them and you.
6. Focus on Contribution:
Shift your focus from seeking attention to making valuable contributions. Engage in activities and projects that align with your passions and expertise. When you're driven by the desire to create positive change, or provide solutions, recognition often follows naturally.
7. Create Your Own Platforms:
In today's digital age, introverts can create their own platforms to share their thoughts, ideas, and talents. Blogs, social media, or niche communities can provide a space for you to express yourself and attract recognition from like-minded individuals.
I've been building a community on Threads, and have found people there really value me for me; I don't think I've ever been as seen and acknowledged before but it's a platform where I feel safe enough to be my full self and I genuinely think that's part of it.
领英推荐
8. Practice Self-Celebration:
Acknowledge your own achievements and milestones. Celebrate your successes privately, even if they are small. Treat yourself to something you enjoy—a quiet evening with a favourite book, a relaxing bath, or a peaceful nature walk. Cultivate a habit of self-appreciation and self-compassion.
Take time to acknowledge your efforts and progress: write in a journal, create a gratitude list, or engage in mindfulness practices to boost your confidence and sense of self-worth.
9. Celebrate Others:
Acknowledging, and celebrating, the accomplishments of others not only fosters a positive environment but can also lead to reciprocal recognition. Genuine praise and support build meaningful connections.
10. Patience and Persistence:
Rome wasn't built in a day, and recognition doesn't always come instantaneously. Be patient and persistent in your pursuits. Consistently delivering valuable contributions will gradually lead to the recognition you deserve.
While staying true to your introverted nature, challenge yourself to step slightly out of your comfort zone. It might be speaking up in a meeting or presenting a personal project to a small group. Gradual exposure can help build confidence in seeking recognition without overwhelming you.
Practice also letting go of the guilt that tends to naturally accompany being celebrated; instead, get curious about the source of that feeling and unpick the associated belief(s) so that you can overcome them.
Remember, none of this is about seeking constant attention, but about being acknowledged and valued for the genuine contributions you bring to the world.
Please feel free to share this newsletter with anyone it may help ??
Much love,
Sam
__________________________
P.S.?Ways I can help you:
__________________________
About Me
I'm Sam ? and I'm on a mission to change the workplace bias towards extroversion, to achieve greater, intersectional, inclusivity for introverts.
As well as help high achieving introverts to thrive without changing who they are.
Companies:
I offer consulting, training and coaching for DEI professionals, leaders/ managers and those involved in hiring.
I am also a keynote speaker.
Introverts:
I can help you achieve your professional goals, feel confident in your introversion and be able to step into your power OR I can help you escape the 9-5 and achieve optimal wellbeing through financial freedom.
DM me for more information!
Author, Speaker, Podcaster, and Higher Education Professional
1 年Great article Sam! It is a myth that introverts don't want and need recognition. As you stated we are human ??. We need to feel appreciated, acknowledged, and recognized. The tricky thing is that all people don't want to be recognized in the same way.
Experienced Design/Manufacturing and Test Engineer | LSSGB | Passionate about People | STEM Enthusiast | SAFRAN Ambassador l SAFRAN Mentor
1 年During the pandemic I worked hybrid as needed, thanks to the company I was employed by. While I enjoyed the flexibility, I realized I needed to be in person to have the social interaction and recognition of my work. I deeply appreciate this article for specific reasons: Point #5 “champion your achievements” – introverts need to learn how to become assertive. By being assertive you are showing self-respect! Something we (introverts) can do better is self-assess every 3 to 6 months and document our achievements. This also leads into #8 “self-celebration” which needs to be practiced deliberately so we can become comfortable with this activity. By supporting others we can celebrate their efforts and work, see #9 “celebrate others”, so thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with the rest of the community! Sam Sheppard ?David Hall