Proud to be an introvert
I never used to say it with pride. In fact, there was a time I tried to work around it, soften it, even “fix” it. But here I am, proudly, comfortably, calling myself an introvert. And if I’m being honest, this blog wouldn’t exist without that part of me.
Writing has always been my way to process, reflect, and quietly connect. It’s how I share the artists that move me, the freelancers I admire, the tools that make my creative life easier, and the ideas that have helped me survive the business world. It’s my outlet. It’s my sanctuary. It’s where my introvert mind gets to stretch out and breathe. But it wasn’t always something I embraced.
Like many introverts, I grew up feeling nudged toward the spotlight, encouraged to “speak up more,” “come out of my shell,” and “act confident.” Confidence, I was told, looked like volume. Like visibility. Like sparkle. So I tried. I really did. But it always felt like I was playing someone else.
It took years (and a few kindred spirits) to realise that introversion isn’t a flaw. It’s a different setting. A different rhythm. I prefer quiet over chaos, deep talks over small talk, and observing over performing. I’m the one at the party near the bookshelf, not the dance floor. And that’s okay.
What once felt like alienation now feels like clarity. I don’t want to be “like everyone else.” And I’ve stopped trying.
Introverts leaders
There’s still a myth that introverts can’t lead, can’t sell, can’t succeed in business. But we ought to know better. If you need proof, just look at the likes of Bill Gates, Rosa Parks, J.K. Rowling, or Barack Obama. Thoughtful, introspective people shape the world too.
What introverts bring to the table
Creative
We are super creative and brew our best ideas in solitude.
Observant and detail-oriented
We see the world more accurately than our more sociable peers.
Deep thinkers
We have a rich inner world, and we can use analytical thinking to solve problems.
Concrete language
Studies show we tend to use more concrete words and are more precise when we talk.
Independent workers / Great freelancers
We thrive in environments where we can work autonomously, without constant supervision or interruption.
Loyalty and depth in relationships
We prioritise deep, meaningful connections with a few close friends rather than maintaining a large social circle.
Thoughtful and reflective
We often take time to process information internally before sharing their thoughts or opinions.
Excellent listeners
We have strong listening skills and have a genuine interest in others and their ideas.
Greater focus
We are less distracted than others and can get into the zone effortlessly.
Working smarter, not harder
We preserve our energy and focus on what’s important.
Traveling the worlds within
Far too often, I witness brilliant minds go unnoticed, undervalued because most of the time, they too think that they should shape shift into something mainstream. And I get it, the world is noisy, and it’s particularly challenging for introverts to maintain visibility (especially on social media). I admit, I’m still navigating this landscape myself, but rather than focusing solely on my own presence, I find fulfillment in supporting fellow creatives and freelancers to shine. Perhaps that’s an inherent trait of introvert, —preferring to empower others rather than seek the limelight for oneself.
Social media, for all its flaws, has been a quiet blessing. While it’s often utilised for self-promotion and seeking attention, it also provides a platform for meaningful interactions and idea exchange among introverted individuals. This article has been inspired by an interaction with another introvert on social media! Yes, visibility takes courage when you’re an introvert. But your voice, your true, reflective, intentional voice is so worth hearing.
Tailoring your work to suit you as an introvert
Being an introvert in a loud industry means learning how to protect your energy and set your own pace. Here’s what’s helped me:
Establishing a home office sanctuary
I genuinely think many freelancers are introverts who simply couldn’t take the buzz of office life anymore. I remember being contracted at a company where Monday morning meetings felt like a punishment, forced chit-chat, oversharing, and fake enthusiasm. Torture.
My home workspace, by contrast? Peaceful. Organised. My music, my schedule, my rhythm. It’s where my best ideas happen. If that’s your vibe too, honour it. Your environment affects your output more than you think.
Leveraging social media as introverts
Social media serves as a powerful tool for introverts to engage with potential clients without too much discomfort. I’m not that old, but I do remember the days I forced myself to do cold calling to promote one my start-up. The nerve-racking experience of pitching to strangers over the phone is one I’ll never forget. Obviously, it wasn’t something I enjoyed, it wasn’t me. Thankfully, platforms like Instagram and Twitter provide a space to showcase your work without feeling the anxiety and sweat on your forehead.
Talk about your superpowers
If a client doesn’t get your quiet nature, help them understand it. I used to tell teachers I didn’t do well with presentations because of my introversion, not as an excuse, but as context. It often shifted the tone and created mutual respect. We’re not rude or shy or aloof, we’re wired differently. And that wiring? It comes with superpowers.
If you have extra time, educate the extrovert about us. Being an introvert does not mean we are anti-social, it means we’re pro-solitude.
Seek support and collaboration
As an introvert you might think you’re alone finding your battle, but the opposite is true. People (introverts and extroverts) like to help each other out, so don’t be afraid to ask. Reaching out for assistance can lead to invaluable growth opportunities. Whether it’s seeking feedback on projects or proposing collaboration, sharing your challenges and ideas nurtures innovation and creative processes. Reaching out doesn’t make you weak. It means you’re invested. Thoughtful. Human.
Sophie Carefull
Speaking of assistance, I would love to take a moment and introduce Sophie, a dedicated coach specialising in supporting creative introverts. Sophie specialises in helping individuals like you navigate the challenges of marketing your work in a way that feels both manageable and enjoyable. Be sure to check out her website for valuable insights, and if you’re seeking inspiration, consider following her on Instagram.
Temporarily closed for spiritual maintenance
While engaging with the outside world is an important part of your professional life, your need for solitude to recharge your battery is also essential. I love client meetings, studio visits, conferences, but after one full social day, I need silence. Time to regroup. Just me and my thoughts. No stimulation. No pings. Just breathing space. If you feel that too, honour it. Take breaks. Go offline. Light a candle. Read something that has nothing to do with work. You’re not lazy, you’re recharging the source.
Conclusion
In a world wired for noise, you bring depth. You might not always be the loudest in the room, but when you do speak—people listen. You offer a perspective that’s thoughtful, grounded, and often unexpected. You see what others miss. You notice the details. You connect below the surface.
So whether you’re building a business, writing a book, learning to say “no,” or just trying to navigate one more Zoom meeting without draining your battery, remember this:
You don’t need to become someone else to succeed. You just need to be unapologetically yourself. And that, my fellow introvert, is more than enough.