Almost anyone can go through periods in their life of shyness, especially if life has caught them off-guard or if they’re in a position to question their worthiness.
In the event that you see what may be perceived as shyness come and go, then you probably need to do some internal work on your self confidence. This will help you get back on track and in the flow of self-empowerment.
If it’s a condition that you stuggle with all of your life, day in, day out, you may be an introvert.
Contrary to belief, introverts are not shy but rather approach life and expression of self in a different way that extroverts.
To answer the question, “Am I too shy to be massively successful?” The answer is clearly, “No.”
In fact, you may be comparing yourself to the wrong folks. If you’re comparing yourself to the loud, boisterous, famous people who dominate the press and tabloids, then you would certainly feel inadequate if you think that this is what you need to act like if you desire success.
On the other hand, if you compare yourself to other introverts who have made huge contributions to our world, you realize that you are absolutely perfect just the way you are.
Abraham Lincoln was an introvert and struggling with self-consciousness did not prevent him from taking massive action for the world at large.
Consider these highly successful introverts:
Albert Einstein
Audrey Hepburn
Bill Gates
Charles Schwab
Christina Aguilera
Courteney Cox
Eleanor Roosevelt
Emma Watson
J.K. Rowling
Steve Wozniak
Steven Spielberg
Warren Buffet
Not bad to have your name amongst those on that list, right?
First off, you must realize that you are perfect just the way you are. You have certain attributes that come naturally that are difficult for others who are less sensitive to learn. For instance…
If you are an introverts you are more likely:
Cautious
More cautious and are prone to be less reckless than their extroverted counterparts.
Discrete
Able to avoid the spotlight (tabloids) and are less likely to receive negative press on the front page news.
Conversational
Gifted with the ability to carry on meaningful conversations (not just idle chit-chat).
Empathetic
Make other people feel as though you really care and are actively listening.
Deeply Connect
Avoid small talk, have meaningful conversations and active listening.
Practical
To under promise and over-deliver, unlike extroverts who tend to overstate and fail to live up to expectations.
Creative
Since they can be content with spending time alone and away from the crowd, this gives them time to be more contemplative and creative than their peers.
Diligent
Work productively in an organized space and manner.
Research-oriented
Excel at conducting extensive research
In the corporate world it is not unusual to discover that the introvert who has worked his or her way up the internal hierarchy is considered the “secret weapon” of the organization.
They are highly valued yet do not seek praise or public recognition as they are more comfortable in a respected support position in the background.
In brainstorming sessions and mastermind meetings they are turned to following violent discourses where they sit silently and calmly and are asked, “What do you think?”
Alternatively, there are some things that you’re less likely to be good at. You don’t necessarily have to learn to act as if you are an extrovert, but you might consider expanding your skill set to include some of the things that come naturally to extroverts.
Keep your eyes open for opportunities to engage in activities that you have never participated in before. Though this may be an uncomfortable challenge, think of it as learning to help others with similar inhibitions (because we’re more likely to be motivated to do something for someone les, than ourselves). Following the experience, you may be surprised to find it enjoyable or rewarding. Congratulations for getting ‘er done.
Consider getting more comfortable with:
- Modeling others (try to “act like” someone you admire in a particular situation)
- Dealing with problems (instead of avoiding them)
- Tolerance (not judging others so much)
- Public speaking & giving presentations
- Networking in group settings
- Becoming better in negotiations
- Increasing your sales skills
Remember to take baby-steps toward your success. Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew. You could be easily overwhelmed and if too far outside your comfort zone, you might tend to bag the whole idea.
It’s better to be content with making a little progress every day (or regularly) than expecting to establish a high degree of competency overnight.
Reward yourself with solitude to recharge after engaging in a personal growth exercise and remember to love yourself because you are perfect just the way you are and totally well-equipped and poised for massive success!
Keep growing!
See you at the top.
Excerpt from Success Attributes © 2008 David M Masters used by permission.
