In a world that often celebrates boldness and outgoing personalities, introverts may sometimes feel like their quieter nature is undervalued. However, introverts bring a unique perspective to the table, often seeing the world through a lens of reflection, deep thought, and careful consideration. They find strength in solitude, draw energy from within, and connect on a profound level with those around them. Their quieter approach to life doesn’t diminish their ability to make an impact—in fact, it often allows them to contribute in ways that are deeply thoughtful and resonant. Their ability to listen, observe, and connect on a one-on-one basis is a powerful gift, one that enriches their relationships and the environments they are part of.
As someone who identifies as 70-80% introverted, I've always found solace in solitude, one-on-one conversations, and intimate gatherings. Large social events? Not really my scene. Instead, I cherish the quiet moments that allow me to recharge and reflect, where I can connect more deeply with myself and others in smaller, more meaningful interactions.
But there’s a fascinating contrast within me—one that emerges when I step into my role as a yoga teacher. It’s as if the introverted part of me takes a back seat, allowing the extroverted 20-30% to take the lead. In front of a class, I thrive. I share. I engage with energy and enthusiasm, even in the midst of large groups. It’s in these moments that I truly come alive, fully immersed in the joy of guiding others through their practice.
Teaching yoga feels like an extension of my purpose, a way to channel my passion for the practice into something that resonates with others. Rarely do I feel the need to retreat or be alone during a class, except during those rare moments when life overwhelms me with sadness or difficult events. Yet, even then, the act of teaching can be healing in itself—a way to stay connected, grounded, and present despite the challenges.
My journey resonates deeply with the themes explored in Susan Cain's book Quiet, which delves into the power of introverts in a world that often celebrates extroversion. Cain’s work affirms what I’ve experienced firsthand: that introverts have a quiet strength, an ability to connect and contribute in ways that are just as valuable, if not more so in certain situations, than their extroverted counterparts.
In teaching yoga, I’ve found a balance—a space where my introverted and extroverted sides can coexist, where I can embrace the calm of introspection and the energy of extroversion in harmony. This balance is part of what makes me the teacher I am today, and it’s what allows me to give my best to my students, whether in the quiet moments of a meditation or the dynamic flow of a Vinyasa class.
So, if you’re like me—an introvert who occasionally steps into the extroverted spotlight—know that you’re not alone. Embrace both sides of yourself. Ambrace who we are while occasionally venturing into the unknown or better saying into parts of ourselves we might see as less familiar. Those parts are still very much a part of us; we simply need to engage them less often to feel truly fulfilled. Use your quiet moments to recharge, and when the time is right, step into the light and share your gifts with the world. You might be surprised at just how much you have to offer but also by how enjoyable it can be to embrace the other side of yourself once in a while.
