With so many ways to communicate whether in-person, phone, or the many social media apps we can access 24/7, introverts are often viewed as odd for their lack of expressing an opinion whether with friends or in a meeting. Introverts are often described as individuals who do not like prolonged social interactions and may feel uncomfortable in large social gatherings. They are not necessarily the center of attention at a party, ignoring social media and their phones for lengthier periods of time, struggle with multitasking, and often enjoy time spent alone. Introverts don’t mind remaining isolated for extended periods, in fact this gives them time to engage in thinking and dreaming!
Some of the most successful individuals have identified themselves as introverts. Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, and Mark Zuckerberg have all identified as being introverts. The brain of an introvert has many amazing skills so when you are finding yourself wondering whether it’s alright that you’ve enjoyed your weekend alone or that the social media break has worked wonders for your mental health, know that there are many qualities of introverts that make them highly successful.
One of the benefits found amongst those who identify themselves as more introverted is the ability to focus more on one’s thoughts, boosting creativity. Nussbaum (2002) has shown that introverts are more open to varying ideas and may actually have higher levels of confidence and independence. Introverts have also been found to be less concerned with what others think. Studies have revealed that a common factor between artists and scientists is a dislike for too much social interaction as less of this allows for time to focus on original ideas (Needle, 2019). Time to focus on one’s ideas and make sense of one’s thoughts and experiences allows for increased creativity and productivity to occur so it makes sense why an introvert may enjoy this time of solitude.
Spending time alone is a healthy thing. It allows us to consolidate memories and emotions as well as re-organize thoughts. Research shows when individuals come out of some type of self-isolated stage, they are likely to socialize better and more effectively.
So whether you or a close friend identify as an introvert, recognize this isn’t a bad thing. Healthy introverts may enjoy spending time alone as they may use this to boost creativity, joining the group when they’re ready.
Feeling more isolated than introverted? Click here for some support.