I'm an Introvert and Here's Proof

I have always maintained that I am an introvert, but every time I said that, it was dismissed by any listener. All my friends would cite the many times I lead meetings, the time I have addressed large audiences, and the public roles I have taken over the years.

My friends have confused shyness with introversion.

I am not shy. I am an introvert.

Sophia Dembling: Nine signs that you might be an introvert:

'via Blog this'

I am quite capable of performing in public settings - as an educator, my job demands it. When I have the chance to be alone in private, I grasp it wholeheartedly.

Those public things that I do drain my personal energy. I can do them, they simply take focus and energy. Being alone lets me recharge. I never mourn the nights I spend home alone with just me, a pen and paper or the computer or a book. Likewise, I never regret the times I spend out with my friends, but it rarely carries the same satisfaction I get sitting in my recliner.

I appreciate the article and descriptions from Dembling. Perhaps they will help my friends understand what I mean when I declare myself an introvert.

Talking Off the Top of My Head

There is nothing like a last minute (relatively) to get the heart racing and mind clicking.

Apparently I am talking tonight at the joint meeting of the local community college board of directors and the school board. Most people who know me realize that this is something I can do and generally do well. The competitive debate in high school definitely has served me well at thinking on my feet and being able to communicate with minimal preparation.

Of course, since this has been my job for six years, is it really minimal preparation?

My name was not on the agenda, but alas, I am actually excited about the chance to clarify some pieces of my program and present ways in which it can grow with support from both sides.

This is really exciting! I just have to remember the boards want to be home before midnight.