5 Myths About Introverts—Busted

Introverts often get categorized as “wallflowers,” but there is more to them than meets the eye.

There is always that one quiet, shy kid in the class. The one who hardly interacts with others, or raises their hand when the teacher asks a question, who is never seen dancing at birthday parties, who does not take part in stage performances—they are basically lost in their inner-self. These kids are termed as introverts.

Introverts often get categorized as wallflowers, but there is more to them than meets the eye. Since they don’t open up easily, it is hard to gauge what is really going on in their minds. It is a myth that introverted individuals are reclusive because of unpopularity or shyness. In reality, introverts are as confident and open-minded as talkative, extroverted individuals. They crave the chance to talk about subjects that interest them and only share an opinion when they thoroughly understand the context.

[Read Related: “7 Myths About Extroverts—Busted“]

They like everything around them to be real and honest. In the real world, there is hardly any scope for this, however. In societies all over the world, people believe in fulfilling formalities—which is why, most of the time, introverts have a hard time fitting in, almost like square pegs in round holes.

In relationships, introverts are not particularly demonstrative in ways of buying cards, flowers or chocolates to show love and affection—instead, they prefer expressing their feeling in actions rather than words. They may not dance with you at a party but in case you fall ill, they help you do your chores and thoroughly nourish and cherish your presence their life. In fact, it is your introvert friends who will know your deep emotions because they are very good observers. They pay close attention to all your actions and thoughts.

When it comes to jobs, introverts are highly detail-oriented because they have the ability to concentrate without any distraction of indulging in water-cooler talk—they talk less and listen more.

Here are five other myths about introverts you may believe, but are just not true!

1. Introverts are Shy

Shyness has got nothing to do with being an introvert or an extrovert. They are usually not the first to initiate a conversation, but once you break the ice, you can have long conversations with introverts.

2. Introverts are Rude

Introverts do not like indulging in small talk; they dislike exchanging social pleasantries. They usually believe in being genuine, but this does not mean they are rude. Let’s face it, most of us engage in repartees for the sake of it.

3. Introverts don’t like people

This is a false notion. Due to excessive stereotyping around introverts, they themselves believe that they don’t like people. In reality, introverts are extremely loyal to their small group of friends. They entrust in having few friends, whom they can always count on.

4. Introverts like being alone

Introverts are day dreamers and are extremely comfortable with their thoughts, but they can get extremely lonely if they don’t have anyone to share their ideas with. They crave for one deep, sincere connection with one person at a time.

5. Introverts are not fun-loving

There can be several perceptions of what fun can be! For some, it is partying. Extroverts feel rejuvenated after a party or a get-together, whereas introverts get exhausted. They like solving puzzles, reading books and engaging themselves in activities that challenge their brains.