Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain
This book was written to give recognition and appreciation to the introverts in our society, and Mrs. Cain gave great perspective on the strengths of these people who are usually characterized as shy, aloof, stuck in their heads, etc. Having a lot of introverted qualities myself, I found the book a fascinating read.
My favorite chapter was called, When Collaboration Kills Creativity. It spoke about how introverts are the most creative when they are by themselves. Mrs. Cain also gave insight into typical thoughts of introverts when they are in groups. I found so much information to apply for myself when I am working within a group. I notice that I do tend to get impatient and frustrated when discussing something in a group setting, because my mind is feeling that if they simply assign the project to just one person, it could easily be accomplished. Instead, some of my more extroverted team members seem to talk incessantly about nothing, and it feels to me they just want to hear the sound of their own voices.
Quiet helped me to realize that understanding my own strengths, and learning how to collaborate them with the personalities of the extroverts is always the best way to approach group projects. And in the process, I can still volunteer for individual projects that I believe can further enhance the team and bring out my best qualities. I look forward to practicing these new thoughts in my next AVP workshop and Peer Health meetings.
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