EMBRACING INTROVERSION IN A WORLD OF EXTROVERTS

In a world that often seems tailored for extroverts, my journey as an introvert in professional speaking has been unique. This experience was highlighted during a training session that involved a game of “This or That.”

For those unfamiliar, it’s a fantastic icebreaker. Do you prefer coffee ☕ (this) or tea (that)? Accordingly, coffee lovers move to this corner, and tea enthusiasts to that corner.

Now, imagine this scenario. The lead facilitator asked, “Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” Intriguingly, every person in the room chose the extrovert corner, except for me.

The facilitator, with a mix of confusion and curiosity, urged me to “Say more.”

Here’s the reality: I love speaking, yet it is and always will be a formidable challenge. Every. Single. Time.

Unexpectedly, this might not be what you anticipate from a professional speaker and a public speaking and communication trainer. Some might argue this undermines my credibility, but I see it differently.

THE UNIQUE STRUGGLES OF AN INTROVERT SPEAKER

🇲🇽 🇺🇸 Born and raised in a bilingual Mexican household, I encountered language barriers upon arriving in the United States. Faced with ridicule and judgment, I convinced myself that silence was my safest refuge. But surely, I’m not alone in this.

Fortuitously, my perspective shifted when I “accidentally” stumbled into a speech and debate workshop in high school. There, I learned not only the mechanics of speaking but also discovered the invaluable treasures of personal development, self-awareness, and confident communication.

Standing before an audience, I felt transformed. Having spent years believing my thoughts were insignificant, I began to embrace that, despite my shyness, my voice mattered.

REDEFINING INTROVERSION IN COMMUNICATION

Contrary to popular belief, being an introvert doesn’t mean quietness, lack of opinions, or muteness.

Admittedly, gaining the confidence to express oneself effectively, especially as an introvert, can seem insurmountable. Yet, I believe this is precisely what distinguishes me as a speaker and a coach. I empathize deeply, having navigated feelings of muteness and uncertainty myself.

Indeed, confident communication is a dynamic goal, but it’s a goal within reach for all, be it introverts, extroverts, or ambiverts. This is why I share this journey with you: to affirm that you indeed have a voice and the inherent power to wield it.

THE INTROVERT’S PATH TO CONFIDENCE

As a starting point for all of us, regardless of our personality types, the key is to nurture and take care of ourselves. This self-care is especially crucial for introverts, as it forms the foundation of finding and confidently using our unique voices.