10 Habits of Successful Introverts (2024)

Hey, introverts! Stop trying to become an extrovert. Embrace your unique and successful qualities

10 Habits of Successful Introverts (1)

I just finished reading,Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, and one of the key messages was to stop forcing yourself to be different by emulating extroverts. In the book, author Susan Cain describes how our culture has undervalued introverts and why that is a mistake and a “colossal waste of talent, energy and happiness.”

Did you know that nearlyone-thirdof us are introverts? Introverts (I’m one of you) get energized by having alone time, while extroverts get motivated from social settings. It doesn’t mean that introverts can’t be successful. In fact, the list of successful introverts is long: Michael Jordan, J.K. Rowling, Christina Aguilera, Bill Gates, President Obama, Emma Watson and more.

Here are 10 habits of successful introverts that I hope can help give you the confidence you need to be yourself.

Build deep relationships

While extroverts might be more comfortable networking, introverts build deep personal relationships with friends and colleagues from a solid foundation of trust and support.

Create plans

Introverts tend to be dedicated researchers and give careful consideration when drafting project plans.

Think before speaking

Before speaking or joining a conversation, introverts contemplate what they want to say and how they will say it so that it is the most productive contribution possible.

Creativity from within

J.K. Rowling developed her initial concept for Harry Potter when she was commuting alone via train. She describes the process, “I simply sat and thought, for four (delayed train) hours, while all the details bubbled up in my brain, and this scrawny, black-haired, bespectacled boy who didn’t know he was a wizard became more and more real to me.”

Don’t jump to conclusions

Introverts are measured in their decision making and hiring and they take time to assess and process situations.

Know their limits

Introverts recognize their own boundaries. They ask for guidance and support when they feel like they are in unfamiliar territory.

Independent workstyle

Introverts are actually great team leaders, but they are also successful when working independently.

Value uniqueness

Since introverts have often struggled to get their true talents seen and appreciated, they are generally quite respectful of the different working styles and preferences of others.

Persistent

Introverts don’t give up easily. They have practice trying to get their thoughts and voices heard over the cacophony created by extroverts.

Listen

Introverts are fantastic active listeners. They don’t interrupt, but listen carefully to extract meaning.

These are the reasons I believe all of you introverts out there should celebrate who you are! What habits do you have as an introvert that you think I missed?

10 Habits of Successful Introverts (2024)

FAQs

What are the 4 types of introverts quiz? ›

These four Introvert types are Social, Thinking, Anxious, and Restrained, represented by the acronym “STAR.”

Who is the richest introvert in the world? ›

Warren Buffett, born on August 30, 1930 is known as the World's Richest Introvert. He is an American businessman, investor, and philanthropist who currently serves as the co-founder, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.

How do introverts succeed in life? ›

Introverts, stop acting like extroverts to be successful—do this instead, experts say. The research is clear: Making extra small talk or raising your hand for networking opportunities can help introverts find more energy, better social connections and higher levels of happiness.

What do introverts struggle with the most? ›

9 unique struggles only highly introverted people face on a daily basis
  • 1) The draining small talk. ...
  • 2) The pressure to be “on” all the time. ...
  • 3) The misconception of being antisocial. ...
  • 4) The need for personal space. ...
  • 5) The fear of phone calls. ...
  • 6) The longing for deep connections. ...
  • 7) The challenge of self-promotion.
Mar 24, 2024

What is the kindest introvert personality type? ›

ISFJ. ISFJ's are quiet, conscientious, and kind. They are responsible in nature and are committed to meeting their obligations. They have a tendency to put the needs of others above their own.

What type of intelligence do introverts have? ›

On average, introverts and extroverts are the same in terms of intelligence. But statistics show that around 70% of gifted people are introverts. People are considered “gifted” when they exhibit above-average intelligence or a superior talent for something, such as music, art or math.

Do introverts have a higher IQ than extroverts? ›

In the past, studies have shown that intelligent people tend to be introverted and show signs of social anxiety. The Huffington Post reported that high IQ levels and introverted tendencies may be linked. "Some of the world's top inventors are introverts.

How introverted is Elon Musk? ›

As an introvert, Musk tends to focus inward, relying on his own thoughts and ideas to drive innovation. This introspective nature allows him to deeply analyze complex problems and come up with unique solutions.

Who is happier introverts or extroverts? ›

According to standard research, extroverts are happier than introverts. They certainly can appear happy, so that seems to make sense. But according to a new study, introverts may be just as happy, but are more reluctant to show it.

Who do introverts attract? ›

Extroverts are fireworks—introverts are a fire in the hearth. Extroverts attract people who like razzle-dazzle—introverts attract people who want to bask in their warmth. Remember that, if you're looking for a one-and-only.

What are introverts prone to? ›

Some studies suggest that introversion may increase the risk of developing loneliness, depression, and anxiety.

Why life is tough for introverts? ›

Being an introvert can be challenging for you career-wise. This is because sometimes, you don't know where you should put yourself in certain situations. It is hard to stand up to bosses or colleagues because you tend to avoid conflictual situations.

What is an introverts worst fear? ›

Like extroverts, fear for introverts can come in wide varieties, but strategic thinking introverts' worst fear is the fear of failure or underperforming. A deeper dive into this fear ties into the fear of rejection and embarrassment.

Do introverts have fewer friends? ›

They may have fewer friends than Extraverts, but they're more likely to be happy with the number of friends they have and how often they see them. They're less likely than Extraverts to start an interaction with their friends, but not unlikely – and that's mostly a matter of choice, anyway.

Why are introverts hard to talk to? ›

Introverts are comfortable in being by themselves. Instead of getting energy from others, introverts draw it from solitude and quiet places. As a result, resolving conflicts and navigating tough conversations tend to be difficult and scary since it forces them to have conversations that they would rather not have.

How do I know which type of introvert I am? ›

What Kind of Introvert Are You?
  1. Social introversion is that person who always says no to going to a party. ...
  2. Anxious introversion includes staying home from the party but for a reason. ...
  3. Thinking introversion means you're pensive and introspective. ...
  4. Restrained introversion means it takes you a while to get going.
Jul 13, 2015

Are introverts Type A or B? ›

Type B personalities can be both introverted and extroverted. Type A introverts are typically confident, self-sufficient, and have good social skills. Type B introverts are often shy, lack communication skills, and are more withdrawn.

Are Type 5 introverts? ›

Type Fives are the most introverted of the Enneagram types, in the sense that they direct the most focus and energy inward.

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