The world is designed for the extroverts to thrive it seems. The plum jobs, juicy projects and throngs of people generally gravitate towards those who appear to have the loudest voices. Our classrooms applaud those who speak up the most, promotions are granted to those who have a voice and are often considered as leaders.
However there is a place for introverts.
3 quick tips for reclaiming your power as introverts
1.Listen actively (which is your superpower as an introvert!) and paraphrase what the other person said, including an important detail in your message e.g. ‘So you got embarrassed because you bumped into her at the supermarket in your faded track pants.’ Paraphrasing allows you an opportunity to speak and signals to the others you were listening which increases their interest to engage in you.
2. Once you have paraphrased and have the floor to speak, use that opportunity to add in your bit of opinion. You could say, ‘mostly people do turn up to supermarkets in casual outfits so I am sure your friend wouldn’t hold it against you. I usually go in my PJs and I’d choose comfort any day.’ You had an opportunity to add your opinion in this instance and also share your own practice.
3. Raise your volume a little bit to seek attention if someone tries talking over you. Not to be rude but to claim airtime, this can be a good strategy and once the other person has back-off interrupting you can resume your normal tone.
After all squeaky wheel gets the grease! If you feel your voice is getting drowned in social settings and even in your one on one relationships, you can definitely seek some help and support. People often seek counselling to build their presence and confidence or to simply learn ways to communicate better with the important people in their lives.
Reach out to me for a friendly and confidential chat to discuss your unique situation. I’d love to help.
Wishing you peace and purpose.
Tahira