Hi Innie Friend,
Remember my freakishly popular post about why introverts hate talking on the phone? The main reason most of us innies don’t like the phone are the lack of visual cues and the increased awkwardness of awkward silences.
Well, yesterday I discovered something even worse than awkward phone conversations …
You see, yesterday was my Introvert Problems Q & A webcast. From my end, webcasts are a whole lot like a phone conversation where I can’t see OR hear anyone else. It feels a bit strange to say the least.
But I’ve done several of these webcasts, so I’m pretty used to the weirdness of it. Sometimes I worry that no one can actually hear me and I’m just talking to myself. Luckily, that’s never happened … that is, until last night.
My internet connection decided to get spotty right in the middle of the webcast, and caused me to drop the call three times! Of course, I couldn’t see all the innie listeners’ faces, but I imagine that they looked crinkled and confused, maybe a little annoyed. Later on, I was surprised by some of the reactions I encountered in messages.
All in all it was pretty much an introvert’s worst nightmare: a phone conversation with dozens of people you can’t see or hear that keeps cutting in and out. Sigh.
What you didn’t hear
I managed to get through the interview with the brilliant and lovely, Alexa Linton, who has agreed to join me on Introvert Talk Sunday, so we can do her insightful advice justice. I also managed to answer a good chunk of the innie questions my lovely listeners sent.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to deliver my super-duper exciting announcement.
The reactions that surprised me
By the way, in case you were wondering, the reactions that I encountered after my embarrassing broadcast were of love and encouragement. I received thank you messages and emails from innies who said they still got a lot out of the webcast even though there were technical difficulties.
Another reason why I love this little innie community we’ve created.
Xxo,
I do think it’s part of being an introvert, appreciating all the simplest things — big or small. And helping all our fellow innies get through is a really tough job (especially when you’re also an empath). Feels like home. <3
Thanks Emmy! 🙂
Hi Michaela. I’m smiling because it was my dislike for talking on the phone that led me to stumble upon your blog. I was in a four relation ship with a man and we only spoke on the phone twice in all that time but, ah, how we loved to text each other. Wonderful texting, what a great invention. You choose when to read a message, four times if you want to, and you get to think about how you will respond. . .
I thought I was the only one who could burst into tears when overwhelmed by too many new people, and the pressure to be bright and bubbly towards each and every one of them. I was feeling ok about myself and my introversion but now that I read your blog, I’m embracing my introversion. I can relate to so many of your comments and those of your followers.
Now, instead of feeling lucky or grateful when I have time to myself, I schedule it into my week and I feel good about it. A close friend of mine called me recently and asked if I wanted to hang out. My response was “No thanks, I’m all peopled out. Next week would be great, though”. She understood and I was happy.
Thanks for helping this innie feel more comfortable in the world.
Aww, you’re very welcome, Shinnie! I’m so happy to hear that this site has helped you to embrace your introversion and that you’re scheduling in innie time each week. xo 🙂
What I’ve noticed is that introversion is made worse when you feel like you have nothing to say. A rule of thumb is to ignore the majority of depressing news in the media and turn your energy towards hobbies/sports and new things. As long as you feel like you can bring something to a conversation, it won’t be made awkward.
Great advice Scott! I also try to avoid all the negativity in the news. 🙂
Hello Michaela
I am a big reader as I’m sure is true of many Innies. There is nothing more satisfying than having quiet time, not only to enjoy a book that imparts great insight into the thoughts and imaginations of another person, but also having the time to digest it and think about it without outside interference.
I just read Paul Coehlo’s “The Alchemist” and the lesson there fits so well with Innies. That is, Follow your Inner personal dreams and comfort levels at all costs, come what may, you shouldn’t live your life by other people’s terms and opinions.
I have started to write more and more and I’m sure you can relate to how that in itself helps Innies more easily understand and interpret the world around us.
I’m interested in finding some Innie rewarding ways to enhance my life all the time. Have a Great Day ! David
Hi David. Thanks for sharing your innie explorations. I’ve read the Alchemist too and agree that it offers a great message for introverts. And yes, writing is such a valuable tool for understanding and growth. xo
Is this thread open anymore I see last post
2014? Love it so I hope so.
If you show or tell people who you are, they are not going to give you a strong reaction. They already know the truth about you. They know what to expect from you. So, do not be hard on yourself.
The people who give you surprised or weird looks are those who do not really know you.