Recently, I was skimming through one of those little magazines that either focus on your mental or physical health. The topic was dealing with depression. And while there were tons of great facts and tips invovled, there was also a quiz to determine whether your actions indicated you were depressed or happy. Now, I am aware that most quizes you find in magazines (or on the internet) are merely fluff and not to be taken too seriously, but this one irked me.The answers seemed to indicate that a happy person was more likely to be social, and less likely to stay home given a choice. It stated that if the quiz taker picked answers that involved solo activities, or anything involving staying home, that meant they weren't as happy and were possibly depressed. My answeres all indicated that I was unhappy. Which isn't true. I'm quite happy. I'm just an introvert.
An introvert is someone who essentially recharges their batteries by way of solitude. And likely in the comfort of their own home, enjoying solitary hobbies. There's nothing wrong with that. Just as there's nothing wrong with being an extrovert, or an ambivert. But the creators of this quize seemed to be saying that to be introverted is a bad thing and to be extroverted is good. Another instance of the introverts almost being shamed for their own natural instincts. This is a prime example of extroversion being valued over introversion. This is due to a lack of understanding, mostly.
People assume (incorrectly) that introverts are shy, awkward, and depressed invidivuals. And while some definitely are (we all experience these attributes), a lot of introverts aren't. In fact, many are outgoing, friendly, and happy. An interesting fact (maybe?) to note is that a lot of prominent figures are introverts. Who really knows why that seems to be the case. I work in a public place; I deal with people for most of my day, and I'm good at it. But that doesn't mean I enjoy being social constantly. It's exhausting. That said, I may have overthought the entire quiz, but it was mildly irritating to read something and realize that introverts are once again shone in a negative light when really we're just an introspective group of folks, who enjoy alone time.
If you're interest in looking for me insight into introverts, Quiet by Susan Cain is a fantastic read. It may surprise you what you find in her book. It surprised me, and kept me interested the entire time I was reading it.
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