Why your introverted personality is a strength and how to use it to your advantage.
Being an introvert in our society can often be associated with having a lack of confidence, having less fun or being less successful. However, as a successful entrepreneur and mindset coach (and fellow introvert), I’m here to debunk these myths and provide with my top tips on embracing your own introverted super powers.
I used to believe that being an introvert made me ‘less than’ my extrovert friends and colleagues. But then I learnt that I had access to a wealth of introverted strengths, and learned how to embrace them. Using these strengths I have successfully launched four businesses. Now I am an award winning business mindset coach having helped entrepreneurs from all over the world including introverts to build their dream businesses.
Tip 1 – Focus on your strengths
Being an introvert comes with an array of really awesome personality traits. Harnessing these traits and transforming them into strengths that can work in your favour and will give your business a level up. Start by reflecting on all your positive introvert qualities and then focus on using these to your advantage. If you are an introvert you likely have the following key traits that are actually incredible strengths. You may be great at conversing with people one to one and building strong connections, listening deeply to those around you and bringing compassion to your relationships.
Now, think about how you can use these wonderful personality traits to your advantage in your business. For example; If you listed that you bring compassion to your relationships you can transfer this skill to your customer relationships. You will have the natural ability to create authentic, caring relationships with your customer base by including them in polls, answering any direct messages on socials and replying with care to questions and requests. Once you’ve accepted and reflected on your positive traits you’ll be able to see them as a true advantage and utilise them in an authentic way to maximise your business.
In my work, I utilise my deep listening skills when I work one to one with my clients. Through deep listening and working with them personally I facilitate deep realisations and formulate key strategies that will serve them best. I don’t offer a one size fits all approach, or even a formula that I think is best. Instead I listen to what my client truly needs and sometimes they don’t even realise what this might be. I then guide them towards manifesting this need into reality.
Tip 2 – Invest in your personal and business development
If you’re anything like me you will have been told that as an introvert you are ‘less than’ your extrovert friends. If you’ve been told this your entire life it’s possible you are suffering from a lack of confidence, making it impossible to realise your dreams or reach your goals. This lack of confidence and self doubt is not who you truly are, it’s definitely not your true nature.
The good news is that you can change these beliefs and transform your mindset. It just takes some work. The best thing you can do to aid this to invest in your personal development and growth. Take courses, invest in a business or mindset coach and engage in practices which boost your confidence. Additionally, make sure you get out of your comfort zone. Practice the things that you feel you struggle with, and once you become comfortable with them you’ll see an entire confidence boost. For example, I used to be quite uncomfortable in front of the camera, but through practice and taking a chance I am now super active on Instagram stories and other video content.
I now feel comfortable being on camera and have discovered that I’m actually really good at it. But it does take practice, I didn’t wake up one day and become confident. Overcoming my limiting beliefs has boosted my overall self confidence and given me the ability to trust that I am capable at learning new skills and getting out of my comfort zones.
Tip 3 – Choose where you spend your energy
As introverts we recharge our energy from being alone. This means we need to be careful about where we spend our energy. Instead of attempting to be the centre of attention at parties or in large networking meetings you may find that you are better off quietly chatting to one or two people to build deeper relationships. You might also find you enjoy sitting back and observing everyone and choosing who you might want to connect with in the future.
You may also find that you need more time to yourself to unwind from large events. If you have a busy week with events, meetings and group appointments make sure you schedule in time to be alone. Simply working from home for half a day, taking a walk or sitting quietly one evening can help you recharge and stay energised for your busy days ahead.
So, all you introverts out there, it’s time to take advantage of your amazing introverted qualities, invest in your personal development and mindset and take the time to relax. You are equal to your extrovert friend and colleagues, and your authentic introverted nature is an asset to your personal life and to your business. Once you learn to embrace all your incredible strengths you’ll be unstoppable.
Jessica Williamson is a serial entrepreneur and a certified, award-winning mindset and business coach, located in Perth.
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