8 times introverts are misunderstood

Introverts are as well-rounded and layered as any onion out there. Introversion doesn’t define a person but definitely explains why someone act in certain ways. With some people, you can get a hint that they might be a bit introverted. With others, it’s really hard to tell because you don’t see the side of them most of us relate to someone being introverted. If you’re introverted, you might recognise some of these situations when you could have felt misunderstood about who you are!

When people think you’re shy

Contrary to popular belief, introversion doesn’t equal being shy. You may be a quiet person, or you may like to spend a lot of time on your own, but that doesn’t mean you are in any way uncomfortable around other people. Confidence doesn’t have to be loud, quite the opposite, it can take a lot of courage and confidence to be quiet and not feel the need to please others or seek validation by talking.

When people think you’re really outgoing

But actually, no, you’re not. You just happened to feel comfortable for whatever reason, be it in the company of people you trust, because you’ve had a beverage with an effect or because you feel passionate about something when meeting someone new. Maybe you’re a leader at work? You were talking loudly or a lot and you might have found yourself being in the centre of attention. Then you meet the person a second time or in a different environment and, well, the comment: “You’re a lot quieter than last time” isn’t unusual for you to hear.

When people think you’re a bookworm

Just because you like spending a lot of time on your own, doesn’t mean you spend the time reading. Books might not be your thing at all, yet most people assume it is due to your introversion.

When people think you’re boring

You have all the “typical” interests the “typical” introvert have. Doesn’t mean you’re not a right joy to be around! You’re witty and smart and act like a crazy person half of the time. People who you don’t let in to see that part of you are just missing out. You tend to share your awesomeness with the people who truly deserves it.

When people think you only like the weather when it rains

Sure, you don’t mind a good storm. It gives you the satisfaction of knowing you have a perfectly valid reason to stay inside. But, you like going out in the sunshine just as much as the next person. You’re introverted, not a vampire.

When people think they can run all over you

Because you’re a bit quiet in most situations, people might not consider your determination or stubbornness. You don’t choose to speak all the time if things are going well, and there’s no reason to talk just for the sake of it, but if there’s a moment you don’t agree with something, you will have no issues voicing your opinion. (Also the pleasure of seeing the surprised face of someone who thinks you don’t know how to even speak is always priceless. Two birds with one stone, I say).

When people think you’re unhappy or in a bad mood

You’re just quietly sitting there thinking to yourself or following a conversation your peers are having. You’re not joining in and you’re sporting a frown with an intense look in your eyes as you reflect on what they’re saying… yep, they will definitely ask you if everything is okay. (And everything is okay, you’re just sitting there!)

When people think you can’t have an outgoing job

You might prefer something that doesn’t need you to be super outgoing and bubbly all the time because it tends to tire you out, but you know how to put an act on if it’s necessary. You gotta do what you gotta do to perform at work, and if that is casually chatting up potential customers or holding/engaging in meetings, then yes, you will do it. Because introversion doesn’t make you incapable.

Which ones of these do you relate to? Share below in the comment section!