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cocoonofbooks 's review for:
This is a must-read for anyone who lives, works, or interacts with introverts -- in other words, everyone.
Cain earned my good graces right away by going over the strict psychology definitions of introvert and extrovert (extravert), and then explaining that because our cultural use of the terms expands to include things like being shy or outgoing, or being sensitive, she would also touch on the research about these traits, with the understanding that not everyone who identifies as an introvert has all these associated traits.
The book sets up the discussion of introversion by explaining how the U.S. went through a shift from a Culture of Character -- where the most important thing about you was what you did when no one was watching -- to a Culture of Personality -- where you were judged on how outgoing and friendly you were. This has created the "Extrovert Ideal" that shapes what we value in business and education.
Cain explains not only what value introverts bring to organizations, relationships, and life in general, but how managers, teachers, and parents can nurture introverts and help them thrive.
Although not everything in here resonated with me personally, many things did. It was nice to be able to realize that I'm not weird for my avoidance of violent movies (which stay with me for years) and amateur improv shows (I find it painful to watch others being embarrassed) -- I'm just a "high-sensitivity" person, not uncommon for an introvert.
This book is valuable for introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts (somewhere in between) alike, as it will help you better understand the environments in which you thrive and how to help others do the same.
Cain earned my good graces right away by going over the strict psychology definitions of introvert and extrovert (extravert), and then explaining that because our cultural use of the terms expands to include things like being shy or outgoing, or being sensitive, she would also touch on the research about these traits, with the understanding that not everyone who identifies as an introvert has all these associated traits.
The book sets up the discussion of introversion by explaining how the U.S. went through a shift from a Culture of Character -- where the most important thing about you was what you did when no one was watching -- to a Culture of Personality -- where you were judged on how outgoing and friendly you were. This has created the "Extrovert Ideal" that shapes what we value in business and education.
Cain explains not only what value introverts bring to organizations, relationships, and life in general, but how managers, teachers, and parents can nurture introverts and help them thrive.
Although not everything in here resonated with me personally, many things did. It was nice to be able to realize that I'm not weird for my avoidance of violent movies (which stay with me for years) and amateur improv shows (I find it painful to watch others being embarrassed) -- I'm just a "high-sensitivity" person, not uncommon for an introvert.
This book is valuable for introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts (somewhere in between) alike, as it will help you better understand the environments in which you thrive and how to help others do the same.