What an Introvert Is — and Is Not

People make assumptions about introverts. I know. I am an introvert.

Some people can question whether they are or not. I don’t. I’m certified in Myers Briggs, so I know the language well. I’ve studied the concept, but it didn’t require much study or an assessment for me. I know I’m in the club.

As a pastor, it means I am more tired when I go home on Sunday. It means I avoid certain crowds unless I have a clear purpose for being there. Also, it means I usually exercise alone and I’m okay with that. It means I’m probably harder to get to know than some people. I get all that and own it. It’s me.

I realize I have to work harder as a leader to allow my team to know me or what I’m thinking. Introversion can’t be an excuse for poor leadership.

I’ve written before about the struggles of introversion in ministry before and how I adapt with it as a pastor. What surprises me, however, is how misunderstood introverts are sometimes. There are a lot of assumptions made when someone is introverted; maybe especially an introverted leader. (And I know lots of pastors – even of very large churches – who are introverted.)

7 assumptions made about introverts:

Some think I’m shy.

That may be your word, but it’s not mine. I prefer purposeful for me. Others may call it something else. I talk when there’s a purpose and I’m not afraid to do so. Three year olds are shy when they hide behind their daddy. That’s not me.

Some have thought I must need more courage.

This is so inaccurate. Choosing not to speak for me isn’t a fear. It’s just being comfortable.

It’s been thought that I must not have anything to say.

Actually, I have lots to say. Have you noticed I blog frequently? I have written a few books. I update Twitter and Facebook frequently. I have a bunch to say. Sometimes I do and sometimes I don’t express it, but many times how I choose to communicate will be different than how others choose to communicate.

In some settings, when I’m quieter than others, it’s been assumed I’m not as intelligent as others in the room.

That’s probably true in a lot of ways; depending on the subject. I try to surround myself with people smarter than me. Plus, I listen well. Actually, however, I have a few degrees hanging on my wall. In some ways, however, I think I may be smarter than the one who never quits talking. I am less likely to say the thing I wish I hadn’t said, because I didn’t think before I talked. It happens, but not as often as it might for some.

Sadly, some have thought I am arrogant or don’t like people.

That is definitely not true. Honestly, I love everyone. I have a Biblical commitment and a personal goal to do so. Whether or not I talk to you will not be a good determination of whether or not I like you. It might even mean I respect you enough to listen more than speak. Maybe.

Some have thought I need someone to talk for me.

Actually I’d rather you not. Now that said, I sometimes let my wife talk for me. She’s good at it too. If I have an opinion I think needs sharing, however, I’ll speak for myself. Or regret later than I didn’t. Either way, please don’t try to be my voice.

Some have told me I need to change, mature, grow as a person or leader.

I have had that said a number of times as a pastor. But, let me assure you there’s nothing wrong with me. Actually, there’s a lot wrong with me, but introversion isn’t one of the things. I’m just quieter than some leaders you may know — or your immediate perception of a leader.

Those are some of the assumptions that have been made of this introvert.

Read more from Ron Edmondson »

This article originally appeared on RonEdmondson.com and is reposted here by permission.

Ron Edmondson
Ron Edmondsonhttp://ronedmondson.com

Ron Edmondson is the pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky. He revitalized two churches and planted two more.

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