You may recall the Me Too protests that have swept across the globe over the last few years, with hundreds (if not thousands) marching in support of victims of sexual assault and harassment.
What I often wonder is if introverts the world over will one day organize similar protests to bring awareness to their being marginalized in society.
Surely, it's not in our nature to draw attention to ourselves in this fashion. Large crowds? Fiery speeches? Exposure on TV and social media? Sounds like an entrovert's dream.
But when it concerns a cause about which introverts are avidly passionate, we do have what it takes to come out of our shells and demand to be heard.
Introverts can, in some ways, sympathize with those the Me Too movement is attempting to give a voice to.
In fact, abuse comes in many forms, and many introverts have been subjected to harsh criticism -- if not flat-out bullying -- just for keeping to themselves and showing reluctance to participate in social activities.
We know the isolation that accompanies being misunderstood, the feeling of not being able to relate to those around us.
Being cast out can adversely affect one's self-esteem and psyche, possibly leading to depression, anxiety, or other negative health outcomes.
Growing up, I questioned why family members and peers took exception to the fact that I liked observing before speaking, that I enjoyed spending time by myself rather than joining classmates for group activities.
It wasn't until I was older that I realized I was really at peace when deep in thought, left alone to read, write, watch a movie, or enjoy other solitary pursuits.
It wasn't just that solitude made me connect with myself more than anything else, but it allowed me to regain energy sapped by way of social interactions with countless people over the course of the day.
Indeed, reflection put me at ease, and I'd finally come to terms with the fact that I needn't go outside of myself to gain anyone's approval or acceptance.
While a Me Too movement for introverts may be far fetched, I feel it is incumbent upon us to take pride in our introversion. We should never back down, apologize, or feel ashamed for what, in the grand scheme of things, is simply how we're wired internally.
Do I think introverts are better than extroverts? Of course not. We're flawed just like anyone else.
But I think it's time for society to acknowledge the myriad gifts introverts bring to the table -- thoughtfulness, depth, a sharp eye for detail -- rather than getting on our case for being too quiet and introspective. For being our true selves.
As a gay half-breed, I have plenty to feel marginiled by. Like you, my solitude is where I find rest, and introversion where I find peace.
ReplyDeleteI feel musinderstood as an introvert perhaps, but not marginalized. Certainly not as much being gay. Bullies will bully anyone they deem weak or vulnerable or different.
I like using my introversion as a super power: harnessing the power of observation and reflection. I prefer being covert about it because no one understands it. And no one understands it because they are so distracted with life.
My distraction, for most of my life, was alcohol. I was an extrovert with it and an introvert without it. I had my own personality dichotomy, a Jekyll and Hyde. I thought I *had* to be an extrovert or I wasn't normal. Trying to be one was exhausting.
Cool read. Thank you.