When introverts put their minds to something, they give it their all. Deep thinking is what they do best.
Sometimes, it’s hard to be an introvert. There are things people seem to misunderstand about us all the time.
For example, people tell us that we are “too quiet” or we should “speak up” more. Hearing things like this can make us feel as though there is something wrong with us. It feels like we have to become more extroverted to blend in and meet people’s expectations.
However, I believe that we introverts have plenty of unique strengths others may not even be aware of or appreciate. These strengths can help us naturally excel in certain areas.
So, my fellow introverts, here are some qualities that should make you proud to be a “quiet one.”
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9 Qualities That Will Make You Proud to Be an Introvert
1. You think things through before you speak.
We introverts tend to consider our words carefully, which is why people often think we don’t speak much. However, this can be one of our strengths. By thinking thoroughly before speaking, we prioritize quality over quantity. This way, we are as prepared as possible, rather than being put on the spot (which we hate).
2. When you put your mind to something, you give it your all.
As deep thinking is in an introvert’s nature, we tend to be very focused when we put our minds to something. Conversely, extroverts seem to be more carefree and have a go-with-the-flow attitude. This may work well for them, but not for us. We generally like to plan things and give our projects (work, home, etc.) our all.
Not only do we benefit from following through on tasks to the best of our ability, but our bosses, partners, and friends likely appreciate it, too.
3. You are great at active listening and absorbing information.
Since we prefer to speak only when we feel it’s beneficial, we often choose to listen instead — and not just listen, but actively listen. In doing so, we pick up on little things, like what someone says through their body language and pauses between thoughts.
We excel at not just paying attention to what the person is saying, but also at processing what they’re saying.
As people like to feel heard, this introverted trait can be valuable in building good relationships.
4. You look at all angles of a situation before making a decision.
While some introverts may struggle with decision-making, many of us do so confidently because we explore all angles of a situation instead of making rash decisions. This careful approach can be beneficial, as not everyone takes the time to do so. For many, it may not come naturally.
For example, if you’re in a relationship with an extrovert who’s more spur-of-the-moment, and the two of you are planning a vacation, you might do most of the planning because it’s your strong suit, while they handle other trip logistics.
5. You excel at jobs you can do independently.
As introverts, we appreciate opportunities to work alone on tasks. It’s not that we can’t work on a team (we can, if necessary!), but we usually prefer working independently so we can focus without unwanted interruptions and small talk with chatty coworkers.
Between tasks, we also value having more alone time to regroup and recharge before moving on to a new project or assignment.
6. You’re great at focusing on one thing at a time.
Similar to the previous point, we introverts excel at focusing on one thing at a time when working independently. While some introverts can multitask, many of us get distracted if there’s too much happening at once, such as too many tabs open on the computer or too many half-finished projects on our desk.
I find that when I give something my complete attention, I complete it faster. This inadvertently makes me more productive, as I can then move on to a new task.
7. You give credit where credit is due.
Most introverts don’t like being put in the spotlight, so if someone else takes credit for something we did, it may be hard for us to speak up.
However, when we’re in charge of a team, we make sure to give credit where credit is due. This is one way introverts make great leaders. We like to make others feel appreciated, which motivates them to work even harder. Plus, by focusing on what they did right, we boost morale, too.
8. You prefer to show by example and results, not by words and talk.
Let’s go back to the team project I mentioned above. If the team is made up of introverts and extroverts, most introverts would probably rather focus on doing research and deep work on the project, while the extroverts might prefer handling the presentation. This can create a win-win situation.
Often, the quality of work we introverts produce speaks for itself, so no one will mind that we didn’t actually present the project.
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9. You have deep relationships with the people close to you.
As introverts, we prefer deep conversations over small talk. We also tend to have fewer people in our inner circle compared to extroverts. For us, it’s about quality, not quantity, in our relationships. We introverts don’t consider everyone our friend.
When we’re with loved ones and friends who “get” us, we can develop stronger bonds. They don’t tell us we’re “too quiet” or that we should “speak up” more. Instead, they let us be ourselves: We share our passions, listen to theirs, and if we need some alone time, they understand.
Introverts, what would you add to this list? I’d love to hear in the comments below! 
