Are you an introvert?

Do you get energized from being around people, or from spending time at home? From birth, your personality style sits somewhere along the extroversion/introversion spectrum.

? Introverts are drawn to their inner world, recharge from being alone, listen more than they talk, and fear self-promotion.

? Extroverts think out loud, get energized from socializing, enjoy being the center of attention and are comfortable with conflict.

In the Western World, approximately 1/3 of people are introverts.

As a strong introvert in a society that celebrates extraversion, I have always felt like there is something wrong with me. I was painfully shy as a child and spent all my time in my comfort zone, which really hurt my confidence. My inner critic beat me up for being “too quiet”. Many introverts suffer deeply because we do not fit into the extraverted ideal ??

Have you ever asked yourself, “how can I overcome my introversion?” Introversion is completely undervalued. This needs to stop ??

?? Introverts are incredible leaders, inventors, and listeners. The loudest voices aren’t always right, and charisma is not required for leadership. By actively listening to their teams, introverted leaders achieve great outcomes by implementing innovative ideas.

Check out my tips on how you can thrive as an introverted leader:

???? Play to your strengths: capitalize on your thoughtful decision-making and deep focus skills to tackle complex challenges.?

?? Communication is key: don't shy away from leading discussions and sharing your ideas, but also recognize the power of active listening.?

?? Create space for reflection: schedule alone time to recharge and think deeply about your long-term vision and goals.?

?? Leverage your empathy: show genuine interest in your team's well-being and concerns to build strong relationships.?

?? Embrace collaboration: collaborate with extroverted team members to harness the best of both leadership styles.

Can introverts fake it as extroverts? 100% you can! If you care deeply about a project, you can act out of character temporarily and then go back to your true nature. For example, I am happiest when I’m coaching my clients 1 on 1, or writing alone in my office. But, I am deeply passionate about helping women become more confident, so I have learned to overcome my fear of public speaking.

?? I now deliver keynote speeches and facilitate workshops on confidence. In 2023, I also started podcast guesting. One of my first guest appearances was on the "Quiet & Strong – Especially for Introverts" podcast with the brilliant David Hall . Listen here: quietandstrong.com/137

??? The key is creating restorative moments throughout your day like rest, yoga, meditation and limiting social plans before a big presentation. If you act out of character for too long, you run the serious risk of burnout as you deplete your resources. Choose jobs that give you enough private works space, or allow you to work from home. Take that time for yourself to recharge.?

Interested in testing out an introverted Confidence Coach? Book your free Confidence Booster session here: https://calendly.com/annagradiecoaching/45min

Lots of love,

-Anna