My INTRO Story -Christy Kuruvilla Thomas

IInd

D.C. Eng. Lit.

Im an introvert to the core, and theres a good chance that either you or someone you know is, as

well. As a child I was called shy, a common misconception about introverts. I remember many of my

friends, after they have truly seen my inner-self, telling me that they once thought me to be

a HAUGHTY ARROGANT SNOB. But the truth was, I didnt want to interact with someone who

wasnt in my immediate comfort zone.

As I write this, I realize I may have to re-evaluate my sanity and you may be questioning it too. That

said, the following five traits are what I consider to be some commonly misunderstood characteristics

of introverts, coming from a true introvert himself.

1. INTROVERTS ARE NOT JUST SHY.

Shy is a general term given to people who are quiet and dont open up in crowds. In truth, an

introvert is a person who is energized by being alone and whose energy is drained by being around

other people. Being an introvert does not mean being fearful of others. It is more of an

internal energy shift that happens when an introvert is surrounded by people not already included to

his comfort zone.

2. INTROVERTS ARE NOT SNOBS.

This is a challenge for the introverted. It is nearly impossible for an introvert to include himself in

groups of people or to just start a random conversation. Its much easier for introverts to keep to

themselves. This does not mean introverts feel superior to others. It simply means they arent

comfortable in these situations. Remember that energy thing above.

3. INTROVERTS LOVE TO BE SOCIAL.

When in a comfortable situation among friends, who have already made the energy cut, introverts

can be loud and be lots of fun. Socializing with the right group can actually offer lots of positive

energy to an introvert. A word of caution: as soon as a stranger walks into one of these groups, an

introvert will very likely fall back to protect his comfort zone.

4. INTROVERTS DO BECOME ENVIOUS AT THE EASE IN WHICH OTHERS CAN SOCIALIZE.

To introverts, just the thought of including themselves in a strange group of people can be almost

painful. It can actually be impossible. That doesnt mean that they dont occasionally wish to be

capable of including themselves in these situations.

5. INTROVERTS ARE GENERALLY VERY INTROSPECTIVE.

When you see introverts sitting quietly by themselves, deep thoughts are probably running through

their minds. Sometimes, its all this thinking that adds to the difficulty of jumping into a group of

people. An introverts mind is very powerful, and quite often an introvert thinks too hard about a

situation. This makes it hard to relax and let the good energy flow.

The next time you come across someone, even a child, who you think is shy or a snob, think twice

about this label. Introverts need understanding. We are all different and need understanding and

support. Dont challenge the introvert and dont push yourself up on them. Being calm and friendly

can work wonders for an introvert.

If you are my 'not-that-really-close' friend, now you know where I really stand. I apologize.