HappyLifestyleJournal
One of the most well known psychologists, Carl Jung, suggested that people are never only introverts or extroverts, but have both sides, one dominant over the other. Every person leans towards one of these characteristics and becomes labeled as an introvert or extrovert. Introverts are focused more on their inner activity, while extroverts are more concerned with the outside world. Introverts are withdrawn, while extroverts are outgoing. These characteristics affect almost all aspects of life, from business to social, and being an introvert can sometimes negatively affect your workplace performance and the way people see you. But don’t despair, as there are ways to find the inner extrovert if your introverted side is holding you back and keeping you from accomplishing the goals you desire. After all, many psychologists agree that even if you are not extroverted, but act as if you were – you will feel as one and be happier.
Here are 7 ways to wake up that extrovert hiding in you:
Listen to what people say. When speaking to another person, pay attention to what they are saying and let them see that you are listening. Then, when you talk, make sure you don’t lose their attention, and don’t let yourself be interrupted a thousand times – be confident and clear. Communication is the most important part of almost every aspect of your life, according to Cathie Black, the president of Hearst Magazines.
Interrupt other people if you have something to say at that moment, especially if you are in some sort of a debate. Even though interrupting can sometimes be considered impolite and rude, it is sometimes necessary, and very often entertaining and confidence boosting. Sometimes interrupting a person in a meeting can bring you attention and respect from your employers, but only if you’re interrupting with a good reason, not just for interruption sake.
Don’t let an interruption stop you completely. In a business meeting, you will probably be surrounded with extroverts who will interrupt you more than once. Don’t let this stop your presentation or get you excluded from the communication. Jump right back in and ask not to be interrupted until you finish, if you mind the interruptions. You can’t let people run over you if you want to be successful, and that’s why you need to bring out your inner extrovert to defend your right to speak and be listened to.
State your mind. Introverts usually keep most of their thoughts for themselves, even if they have good ideas that they could apply at their workplace. Don’t close yourself up. The fact is, if you don’t express your thoughts and ideas, you’re not helping anyone, especially not yourself. State your mind. Say what you think. You will see – you will feel better about yourself, and you might even progress at work. Above all, you will get included in the workplace communication and this can help you connect with your colleagues on a social level, which will make you more satisfied and willing to show up for work.
Use body language. Non-verbal communication represents about 65% of all communication, so when communicating, don’t just use words. Let your body show that you are a part of the conversation. Use hand gestures, head movement, upright posture etc. Make a connection with the person you are speaking with, and give signals that you understand what they are talking about. If you are just standing still without any movement or facial expressions, you will look as if you are not interested in the conversation and you will fail to make a connection with your interlocutor.
Show up to work related social events. Don’t be that person who never shows up and always misses these events. This will require you to make an effort and try to express or acquire some social skills, but it won’t be too bad. Going to social events will help your social life as well as your career, as there you will have the opportunity to make some relevant contacts that could be useful in the future. After all, you don’t want to be the only one who never shows up and misses bonding with colleagues and making contacts.
Do the opposite of what you usually do. If you are extremely introverted, you will not be able to change quickly. But you can practice behaving differently, and one day it will all come naturally. Try wearing a more daring outfit, listen to more dynamic music than you usually do and try engaging in conversation with various people. For a start, let those people be the ones you feel comfortable around, and then, for example, talk to a salesman in a store or your neighbor. Personalize your workplace – you can put some pictures or flowers on your desk. This might make you look more approachable and maybe even feel more open. You can also bring some snacks for your colleagues – this will certainly bring you some attention, and you will feel more social.
You don’t necessarily have to be an extrovert to be successful at work. In fact, introverted persons are often more focused and spend more time thinking, but you need to draw out the extroverted part of you sometimes, when you need to express your opinions or ideas, stand up for yourself or to be noticed at events. Hopefully, these tips will help you become more extroverted.
