Hired by introverted leaders to be visible on their terms | Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner | Strategies to embrace introversion as a strength
At yesterday's church service, I found pausing and reflecting on the banner reflecting my church's mission statement for this year. I've seen it countless times and yet, something about it resonated more deeply with me. This is to be the "Year of Engagement" for all of us. As an introvert, it takes me much energy to reach out and engage with people, even those I care about. I've also often joked with my family and friends that I don't want to see or speak to anyone after a long day of coaching sessions and this includes my kids! For introverts, the concept of engagement can seem daunting. It often brings to mind extroverted activities like large gatherings, public speaking, and constant socializing. However, engagement is not about how many people we interact with, but the depth and authenticity of our connections. Engagement means being present, actively listening, and connecting with others on a meaningful level. It is about quality over quantity, where even a single, genuine conversation can be more impactful than numerous superficial ones. Here are some of my thoughts on how I engage with others. I start small intentionally. I ask myself what will be beneficial and valuable for the other party in this interaction with me. These small steps create a foundation for deeper connections. I leverage technology and engage with my connections in numerous ways without being overwhelmed by face-to-face interactions. I know nothing can replace face-to-face interactions but this helps me when my energy is low. Sharing our thoughts and experiences can be powerful. Writing articles, sharing insights on social media, or participating in discussions helps us connect with others who resonate with our perspectives. It also allows us to contribute to conversations in a way that feels authentic and comfortable. Engagement is a pathway to personal growth. By connecting with others, we gain new perspectives, learn from different experiences, and challenge our thinking. These interactions help us grow, both personally and professionally. Everyone needs a community to belong to, even introverts like myself. Engaging with others builds a network of support. Having a circle of trusted individuals who understand and support our journey is invaluable. These connections provide encouragement, advice, and a sense of belonging. At its core, engagement is about relationships. Meaningful relationships enrich our lives, providing joy, support, and fulfillment. As introverts, we may seek fewer but deeper connections, and these relationships can be incredibly rewarding. My church's mission statement of "Year of Engagement" has taught me that engagement is not about fitting into extroverted norms, but about finding ways to connect that feel authentic and fulfilling. We have the unique ability to build deep, meaningful relationships that matter to us. #engagement #insights #reflections #coaching #impact #introverts #mindset
