In my job, I have to be approachable and easy to talk to.
I try to master the ability to make people feel like they are the most important person in the room.
I see these qualities in other leaders and they have always fascinated me.
For years, I have explored, studied and researched the reasons why some people naturally mingle and can mix it up. While others struggle with it, and sometimes have to draw on courage to step through their own fears to meet another human being where they are at.
My colleague, Rebecca, gave me a book called Quiet, by Susan Cain. The book is about the power of introverts in a world that cannot stop talking. She said she thought of me because the book speaks to many of the principles I employ in my coaching and leadership development workshops.
I love this book. It has enlightened and explained so many things to me about people I have known. It is inspirational for anyone interested in developing themselves, being a better leader, or understanding family members or friends. For a person who has made a living “meeting others” where they are at, selling, and leading companies, I was taken back by the depth and perspective of this book. I want to celebrate the life of every introvert I meet, for me this especially pertains to my grandchildren.
At least 1/3 of the world are introverts. They are the ones that prefer listening to speaking; who innovate and create but dislike self-promotion; who favor working on their own over working with teams.
It is to introverts—Rosa Parks, Chopin, Dr. Seuss, Steve Wozniak—that we owe many of the great contributions to society. This book does a masterful job of charting the rise of the Extrovert Ideal throughout the twentieth century and explores how it has come to permeate our culture.
I highly recommend this read and will leave you with this short excerpt from Susan’s book…
Whether you are an introvert or extrovert who loves or works with one, here is the blueprint to take with you;
Love is essential; gregariousness is optional. Cherish your nearest and dearest. Work with colleagues you like and respect. Scan new acquaintances for those who might fall into the former categories or whose company you enjoy for its own sake. And don’t worry about socializing with everyone else. Relationships make everyone happier, introverts included, but think quality over quantity.
The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some it’s a Broadway spotlight; for other, a lamplit desk. Use your natural powers-of persistence, concentration, insight, and sensitivity-to do work you love and work that matters. Solve problems, make art, think deeply.
Figure out what you are meant to contribute to the world and make sure you contribute it.
Bless you and yours on your journey.
Sincerely,
Jerry