I understand a slight majority of all people are introverted. And based on my interaction with other writers, I’d say, as a group, we’re decidedly introverted. If you’re introverted, read on. This post is for you. And if you’re not introverted, read on anyway to better understand us.
Introversion Isn’t Bad: In a world that embraces extroverted people, behavior, and actions, being introverted may seem like a bad thing. It’s not. It’s just different from what the vocal extroverts portray (who, by the way, are in a slight minority).
Introversion Makes Us Who We Are: Being introverted may be a key reason why we can hunker down and write. Embrace that. It also makes us better listeners and good friends. Doesn’t everybody want a friend who listens?
Know-How to Use Introversion: Being introverted gives us more time to think, forming our thoughts and informing our writing. Yeah, that’s a good thing! Being introverted provides the opportunity to observe others, capturing details, scenes, and dialogue. That knowledge comes in handy when we write, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, memoir, poetry, or blog post.
Learn How to Step Out of Introversion: Although it may be difficult, and sometimes painful, there are situations when we need to push our introversion aside. We do need to network, build a platform, and promote our work. The key is to figure out how to do these non-introverted tasks in a way that works with our personality and taps our strengths without sucking the life out of us or paralyzing us with fear.
Although introversion may sometimes get in our way, when it comes to writing, I think it’s also our greatest strength.
Learn more about writing and publishing in Peter’s book: Successful Author FAQs: Discover the Art of Writing, the Business of Publishing, and the Joy of Wielding Words. Get your copy today.
Peter Lyle DeHaan is an author, blogger, and publisher with over 30 years of writing and publishing experience. Check out his book Successful Author FAQs for insider tips and insights.
2 replies on “Are You Introverted?”
One of my essential characteristics, especially in person. I tend to be more extroverted in my writing though.
That is some great insight!
I never considered that it is easier for me to be an extroverted writer than an extroverted person!