Behind the Scenes - Week 40
Nugget of the Week
Guilt and shame are two sneaky emotions that can easily keep we introverts from getting the rest and replenishment we desperately need. When we feel like we’re not doing enough or fear being perceived as “lazy,” guilt creeps in.
We might push ourselves to stay busy, over-commit, or overextend, all in the name of proving our worth. Shame often tags along, whispering that taking time for ourselves is selfish or unproductive, feeding the belief that resting is a weakness or something to be earned only after we’ve done “enough.”
Remember though, they are not optional luxuries for us: They are our essentials, non-negotiable needs that enable us to be the best version of ourselves.
This Sh** Really Happened!
I was reading a colleague’s post on LinkedIn asking for thoughts about the difference between the way extraverts and introverts either talk to think or think to talk. You’ve probably hear me riff on this before. Anyway, clearly I was going to be interested in this so I started reading the comments and that’s when I saw the comment that had me spit out my coffee.
“I talk to think – it’s the only way I can make sense and process things.” Not an introvert then I guess.
“I’m often jealous for the support, space and understanding people give to introverts.” I thought this was some kind of sick joke, but he went on …
“‘Chatty people’ often have to fight for credibility and the comments I sometimes receive people would never make to an introvert for being quiet as they process“.
By this time I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.
Clearly he’s never been on the receiving end of the criticism we take for taking too long to contribute, or make a decision, or what we’re so quiet!
But it got me fired up that’s for sure.
This is an example of the extraversion bias in action and it’s why I do what I do.
Coming up, Buttercup!
It was such an honour for Sue Wisbey and the team she has assembled over the last 7 years to be nominated for a SOMO 2024 award for Innovation.
The work we do through the A&O Shearman ReStart programme with the over 50s, who following redundancy or having cared for elderly relatives, find themselves looking for fulfilling work. And, we know how challenging that can be even though ageism is legislated against.
The best, most heart-warming piece of feedback from this year came from a man who had lost his business due to divorce, and his children said “You’re so different since that programme – we feel like we’ve got our Dad back”
That makes it all worthwhile
Hot off the Press
To me, Listening and Inclusive Leadership go hand in hand, and are foundation for intentional action, so the following combination of Podcast and LIVE Show just seem perfect match to share with you this week. Click on the banner below to watch or listen.
If you rate the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify as well as Like, Comment and Share the YouTube video you will be helping other fellow introverts who may find this content helpful, encouraging them to live a more fulfilled and authentic life.
I look forward to you tuning in and as you do, I am off to my hair appointment and then late lunch with a loving friend because to take action for self-care is an equally important responsibility for our flourishing.
