By LYANA ROSALINI MOHD YUNUS
Quiet individuals are often called introverts. The word introvert is mistakenly used to mean lone rangers who are shy and do not like to communicate.
Time after time introverts are misunderstood in society and if common stereotypes have anything to say on this, it is that quiet individuals are usually socially awkward loners who abhor large crowds and would run away at the sight of others.
When it comes to categorising a person, identifying an introvert goes beyond just a shy individual. According to Carl King, author of 10 Myths About Introverts, a commonly believed myth is that introverts do not like to talk.
However, King explained that this assumption is not true. While introverts may find small talk difficult, thus resort to silence when it comes to chit-chatting, it is relatively simple to get them talking. Just approach them with a topic of interest to them instead.
With regards to this particular misconception, I am of the opinion that introverts are just more cautious communicators. They would prefer to listen before they talk, choosing words carefully and only speaking when there is a need to.
My sister faces this issue on a regular basis, with strangers often assuming she is anti-social, unapproachable or a plain snob. Relatives would usually label her as the quiet one amongst my siblings and would always compare us in term of friendliness.
This stems from a lack of understanding about my sister, a typical introvert. She only talks when the topic is of her interest and expertise. She dislikes small talk but appreciates factual and informative
conversations. Try talking to her about the human anatomy, she can go on for days!
As quoted by Chicago Lawyer magazine columnist Christina Martini, “Introverts are quiet but this does not mean that they do not have anything to say.”
Introverts may not be keen on talking. However, this does not mean that they do not have an opinion.
My takeaway on this is that when it comes to communicating, introverts would usually gather data first before forging out their opinions. Introverts feel that it is best to deliberate before commenting on an issue and giving their say.
Another famously, erroneously attributed trait for introverts is their shyness, but if you ask me being shy has nothing to do with introversion.
Introverts are not afraid of approaching or communicating with people. However, introverts often need a reason to interact. Introverts do not interact just for the sake of it.
A writer from Lifestyle website, Scott Christ shared in his article that among other famously known misconceptions, people think introverts always want to be alone.
Even though it is true to some extent as introverts do enjoy quiet time alone such as reading or self-
reflecting, they can also get lonely if they do not have anyone to share their thoughts, experiences and discoveries with.
I once dated a classmate who was deemed as the ultimate introvert. He shared with me that he prefers spending his free time alone. Even though spending time with friends was entertaining, a day out with a crowd will usually tire him out. He will then turn to gaming for hours on end at home to replenish his energy.
Introverts look for sincere and authentic connections with people, usually either one-on-one or in a
small group of friends. They do often enjoy the company of others, especially if the individuals share common interests.
So the next time you see a quiet person and you feel like talking to them, just strike up a conversation, and say hi!
Time after time introverts are misunderstood in society and if common stereotypes have anything to say on this, it is that quiet individuals are usually socially awkward loners who abhor large crowds and would run away at the sight of others.
When it comes to categorising a person, identifying an introvert goes beyond just a shy individual. According to Carl King, author of 10 Myths About Introverts, a commonly believed myth is that introverts do not like to talk.
However, King explained that this assumption is not true. While introverts may find small talk difficult, thus resort to silence when it comes to chit-chatting, it is relatively simple to get them talking. Just approach them with a topic of interest to them instead.
With regards to this particular misconception, I am of the opinion that introverts are just more cautious communicators. They would prefer to listen before they talk, choosing words carefully and only speaking when there is a need to.
My sister faces this issue on a regular basis, with strangers often assuming she is anti-social, unapproachable or a plain snob. Relatives would usually label her as the quiet one amongst my siblings and would always compare us in term of friendliness.
This stems from a lack of understanding about my sister, a typical introvert. She only talks when the topic is of her interest and expertise. She dislikes small talk but appreciates factual and informative
conversations. Try talking to her about the human anatomy, she can go on for days!
As quoted by Chicago Lawyer magazine columnist Christina Martini, “Introverts are quiet but this does not mean that they do not have anything to say.”
Introverts may not be keen on talking. However, this does not mean that they do not have an opinion.
My takeaway on this is that when it comes to communicating, introverts would usually gather data first before forging out their opinions. Introverts feel that it is best to deliberate before commenting on an issue and giving their say.
Another famously, erroneously attributed trait for introverts is their shyness, but if you ask me being shy has nothing to do with introversion.
Introverts are not afraid of approaching or communicating with people. However, introverts often need a reason to interact. Introverts do not interact just for the sake of it.
A writer from Lifestyle website, Scott Christ shared in his article that among other famously known misconceptions, people think introverts always want to be alone.
Even though it is true to some extent as introverts do enjoy quiet time alone such as reading or self-
reflecting, they can also get lonely if they do not have anyone to share their thoughts, experiences and discoveries with.
I once dated a classmate who was deemed as the ultimate introvert. He shared with me that he prefers spending his free time alone. Even though spending time with friends was entertaining, a day out with a crowd will usually tire him out. He will then turn to gaming for hours on end at home to replenish his energy.
Introverts look for sincere and authentic connections with people, usually either one-on-one or in a
small group of friends. They do often enjoy the company of others, especially if the individuals share common interests.
So the next time you see a quiet person and you feel like talking to them, just strike up a conversation, and say hi!