by Joe Miller,
Director of Development
This week’s post comes from Emily Castilleja, assistant librarian for Pocahontas County Library and Visitor Centers’ Hillsboro branch. Emily invites us to learn the virtues of being an introvert in a world that sometimes seems geared toward extroversion.
Being a quiet individual in social settings can be challenging. It can be especially challenging in the kinds of social situations where everyone is expected to be outgoing. As someone who still struggles to engage in small talk every day, I always felt like something was wrong with me. Despite my ability to write and draw, and my love of learning, forming sentences in casual conversations has always seemed impossible, leaving me feeling like a deer in headlights.
Although I am drawn to non-fiction, particularly science and psychology-related content, one book, in particular, caught my attention but also made me apprehensive. Titled Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Talking, the very name made me uneasy. I avoided the book for a while before I finally realized I was being… well, silly.
The following day, I mustered the courage to borrow the book and began reading it. Initially, the introduction felt relatable yet slightly repetitive, making me question how the author could stretch the topic into an entire book. However, by the end of the first chapter, I found myself captivated, and by the second chapter, I started to embrace my introverted nature without self-judgment.
I became engrossed in the book, discussing it every chance I got. This insightful read reassured me that there is nothing wrong with being introverted or reserved; in fact, it’s more common than I thought. The book’s accounts of individuals pretending to be extroverted for societal acceptance and the studies highlighting introverts’ unique leadership qualities were enlightening.
The author skillfully presents complex topics through comprehensible studies, sprinkled with humor. The book gets a little dense at times, but, I enjoyed the challenge of Googling some references, as those explorations added to the fun of exploring each chapter.
As I delved deeper into the book, I found myself reflecting on my past experiences and how societal expectations had shaped my self-perception. I remembered moments in school, at work, and even in social gatherings where I felt pressured to adopt a more extroverted demeanor.
It was liberating to realize that my natural inclinations were not flaws but simply different ways of navigating the world. The book also emphasized the importance of finding environments that nurture our strengths. I began to seek out quieter spaces and activities that aligned with my interests.
These changes not only made me more comfortable but also allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who appreciated my perspective. Moreover, the book inspired me to advocate for the value of introversion in my professional life.
I started to voice my ideas more confidently in meetings, knowing that my thoughtful and measured approach was just as valuable as the more spontaneous contributions of my extroverted colleagues. This shift in mindset not only improved my self-esteem but also enhanced my relationships with my peers. In essence, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking was more than just a book; it was a transformative experience that helped me embrace my true self.
It taught me that introversion is not something to be cured or overcome but a unique and powerful way of being. With this newfound understanding, I felt a sense of peace and acceptance that I had never experienced before. The book continues to influence my daily life, reminding me to honor my introverted nature and to celebrate the diverse ways people contribute to the world.
Introversion isn’t the only fascinating subject you can learn about in a book. Your local library is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering titles on farming, crafts, history, and so much more. Each book you pick up has the potential to broaden your horizons and transform your understanding of various topics. Visit the library to discover how a good read can shift your perspective and enrich your life.