Quietly Confident
Reflections from an introvert, my shyness isn't rudeness.
My shyness isn’t rudeness
I’m an introvert.
And I’ve been shy most of my life.
Sometimes it can stop me doing or saying things.
But my shyness isn’t rudeness.
When I first meet you, I might not say much.
I’m quietly thinking, what should I say, what’s right?
But I’m also listening, listening to you.
In a meeting I might be quiet and only make a couple of comments.
I’m observing, taking it all in, I’m processing the challenge.
I’m listening.
If you’re upset and need comforting.
I want to help; I want to say the right thing.
But I might not say something straightaway.
I’m listening. I want to make sure what I say will be empathetic and supportive.
At a networking event. I want to meet lots of new people.
I get nervous, I prefer 1:1 than a large group.
I’m listening.
I’m trying to build up the courage to speak to someone and introduce myself.
But when I do meet someone, I discover after the initial conversation, I find my stride, I gain confidence, and I’m happy to talk more.
When I have creative work to present to the client, I’ve listened and I’ve creative problem solved so I feel confident to present the ideas, the brand strategy, the design.
As I get older, I’m a little more confident, but the shyness is still there.
But I am listening, observing and being thoughtful.
As I reflect on my journey, I realise that each quiet moment, each instance of thoughtful listening, and every observation has been a step towards a deeper understanding of myself and others. This understanding has been the foundation that I've built my confidence.
Being shy and introverted isn't a barrier; it's a unique lens through which I view the world. It's taught me the value of patience, the strength in thoughtful silence.
So, to anyone who feels overshadowed by their shyness or misunderstood as an introvert, please remember this:
Your quiet presence is powerful.
Your thoughtful words are impactful.
Your journey towards confidence is uniquely yours.
Embrace it.
Be quietly confident
Thank you for reading. I love to write about, confidence, curiosity and creativity.
What helps you be more confident? I’d love to know what you think.
Judy xxx
P.S. Inspiration from my notebook.
“Knowledge is power. But Knowledge about yourself is self empowerment.”
- Dr Joe Dispenza
