Do You Want to “Go Far”?
Do you want to go far?
An African proverb states,
If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.
Going alone might imply you are an introvert, but is that a bad thing? Can an introvert also go far?
My Expertise
I am a life-long introvert. I draw my strength from being alone. But I also want to go far. I have come to value getting out of my comfort zone. I reluctantly joined Toastmasters, a public speaking organization, three years ago. Now, along with writing, I also do public speaking. Impossible? Let me share what I have learned.
If you are an introvert:
· You are comfortable with your own company.
· You like small, intimate groups rather than large gatherings
· You prefer to communicate through writing rather than speaking.
· You spend a lot of time thinking.
· People might think you are aloof.
· Remember, you have been fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
There are many examples of Biblical Characters in the Bible who were introverts:
o Jacob was described as a “quiet man” (Genesis 25:17).
o Moses was “slow of speech” (Exodus 4:10).
o Still, they were willing to be used by God for His kingdom
Being an introvert is not a bad thing!
· You are a good listener.
· You are very self-aware.
· You consider a variety of options before you make a decision.
· You are creative and often think outside the box.
· You are observant and are constantly learning by watching others.
· You are drawn to jobs that value your independence.
Things that helped me “go far”, Toastmaster style.
· I learned I couldn’t compare myself to extroverts.
· I needed to find ways to calm and encourage myself before and after giving a speech.
· I watched and learned from the schedule for the Toastmaster’s meetings.
· I was given tips for planned speeches.
· I gleaned valuable insights into what constituted a good speech by listening to positive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
· People were supportive and wanted me to succeed.
· Yes, my knees shook, and my voice trembled, but the predictable routine was comforting, and eventually, I improved
Ways you can “go far”:
· Find a way to relax before a stressful situation.
o Practice deep breathing
o Connect with nature.
o Read something inspiring.
o Pray
o Perhaps, you can ask for an agenda before a meeting.
· Remember, you have good ideas but need time to process and organize your thoughts.
o Identify the main problem or issue
o Interpret possible meanings
o List and prioritize possible solutions
o Come up with an action plan.
o Remember that introverts are good at thinking outside the box.
Action Step: Think of being an introvert as your extraordinary power!
· You see the world in a unique way.
· Learn more about yourself and your gifts.
· Here are two books to get you started:
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain, or
The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why the World Needs You to Be You by Holley Gerth
Knowledge is power, so learn more about finding your secret strength. You don’t need to become a public speaker, but you can grow in your ability to connect with others.
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