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Happy New Year -- and welcome to Introvert Pride!

http://www.introvertpride.com

Great news: You've arrived at the newly launched home for introverts on the web -- at the start of a new year, no less!

My name is Jeff. I'm a writer by trade, and I've been an introvert my entire life.

That's right.

Like many of you fellow introverts, I remember questioning as far back as grade school whether something was wrong with me in that I wasn't as talkative, sociable, or energetic as my peers. And the fact many of them made fun of me for my quiet, low-key demeanor certainly didn't aid my cause.

But as I grew older and learned more about introversion, I came to realize I wasn't weird, antisocial, or deserving of any other labels foisted upon me. I was just different in my internal wiring. 

Introspective and quiet? Check.

A tendency to think through what I'm going to say before opening my mouth? Yep.

A need for solitude in order to recharge my batteries following heavy social interaction? Absolutely.

A deep interest in solitary pursuits, particularly reading and writing? Always.

As I went checking these off the list, I let out a sigh of relief. "Wow," I thought to myself. "There are actually other people in the world just like me!"

My aim in creating this page is to give choice to those who:
  • Are introverts and just don't know it yet (as was the case with me)
  • Are persecuted for being introverts (I was in that very boat)
  • Feel the persistent urge to change who they are just so they can fit in with the crowd (happened to me all the time)
If you're like me, you've been asked more times than you can count -- whether by co-workers, friends, relatives, or acquaintances, why you're so quiet. Annoying, isn't it?

If you're like me, you've been made to feel like an outcast because you're not the gregarious, chatty type -- in spite of the fact you make the effort to be polite and strike up a conversation every now and then.

Believe me, I've been in your shoes. But you can take heart in the fact that we're not alone.

In fact, introverts make up approximately 25 to 40 percent of the population! 

This site strives to clear up a slew of misconceptions regarding introverts, including:
  • that introversion necessarily implies one is quiet and withdrawn
  • that solitude and loneliness are one and the same
  • that introverts can never come out of their shell, even if with people whom they trust and feel comfortable around
  • that introverts could never actually be proud of being introverts, or being attached labels like "nerds"
I will draw on my passion for and knowledge of psychology and human behavior, touching on everything from the kinds of relationships that can most enrich introverts' lives to ways they can tweak their shopping patterns and other behaviors to simplify their lives.

I will also dabble in some history -- I know many people find it dull, but it's nice to go back in time every now and then! -- and shine the spotlight on famous introverts ranging from George Washington to Julia Roberts. (Being that I'm an introverted writer who finds inspiration in other introverted wordsmiths, you can bet your bottom dollar noted authors will be showcased!) Some of these posts will incorporate famous phrases/sayings attributed to them.

But I'll be sure to also throw in some geeky fun facts visitors are sure to eat up, like obscure, funky-sounding words only nerds like me (and likely yourself) would ever look up, book recommendations, hilarious puns, and more.

Take solace in the fact that I'm one of you. We're kindred spirits. I know exactly what you go through every time someone presses you to change your personality, speak up, and cease living in your head because I've been subjected to such unbecoming behavior.

The good thing is that in this blog you'll not only find a comfy hideaway from those who take exception to your most authentic self, but you will learn valuable strategies that will enable you to stand up for yourself, get more fulfillment out of life, and limit your circle to people who actually deserve to be in it.

My mission is to make my content as informative and inspiring as possible. If readers like you come away having learned something and prouder than ever before to be an introvert, I've surely succeeded. 

So get cozy, grab a cup of coffee, and prepare to be fueled with introvert pride!


Jeff
Writer & Proud Introvert

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