Sunday, May 27, 2012

Silence is Golden

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Susan Cain
Psychology

I read this book in one day. One day, people. That means you need to go out and buy it right now! Or check it out of the library (yeah, on second thought, do not shell out $26.00 for a book you’ve never read). Also, you’ll probably be more interested in this book if you’re an introvert. But extroverts can read it, too. They’ll definitely learn something.

Did your teacher ever write on your report cards that they wished you spoke up more in class? Dear god, I hated that. Perhaps you’d rather curl up on the sofa with your pet and a good book Saturday night than go out to a club and get hit on by drunken jackasses. I definitely would. In our American culture, being an introvert is usually painted in a negative light. We’re encouraged to not be alone so much, to talk more, be more open, expressive ourselves, be more social (boy, have I heard that one more times than I’d prefer). But being an introvert doesn’t mean you’re lonely or have less friends or have less fun. Susan Cain delves into the psyche of introverts in fascinating and detailed ways. She discusses why extroverts are so valued in our society and how introverts differ, but in good ways. Once we know what makes introverts behave the way we do, she gives advice on how we can thrive in school, in work, and in our personal relationships. She even has a chapter on learning how to get along better with the people in your life who are extroverts.

Now I finally understand that it was okay that in school I hated to be put in groups for projects. I worked much better by myself, as most introverts do. Oh, how I wish this book had come out years ago. It really is an eye-opening read. Everyone can get something from it.

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