Book Review: Quiet By Susan Cain
Best for:
People who are introverted and hope to learn more about introversion. Also, those who have a general interest in personality psychology. The book is written heavily in favor of and to introverts, however, extroverts who wish to better understand introverts may gain valuable insights as well.
Difficulty to digest:
Quiet is written in a passionate, light, and easy to digest manner. While the book bounces between stories and research, it’s always in a way that’s down to earth and comprehensible. Most people will understand the main points in a single read.
Key Insights:
There are several sections in the book. The first sections covers how the United States adopted an ‘extrovert ideal’. This essentially means extroverted individuals are seen as more competent and valuable in society. A later section discusses how this ideal is not universal. Another section talks about what it means to be introverted biologically and psychologically, as well as the value of being an introvert. Within the section are stories of powerful historical introverts. The last section gives advice about how to be, raise, and interact with an introvert.
This book has a lot of value for introverts uncomfortable or unfamiliar with their own strengths and desires. There are both pros and cons to your natural disposition (although this book is highly favorable to introverts). You don’t have to strive for the opposite, even if that’s what society values. There is plenty of value in taking your own path and finding confidence in your preferences. Time after time, Cain shows what it’s like to be an introvert and how it’s valuable.
Other considerations:
Cain makes passionate arguments but there are so many ‘introverts are great’ facts it may lead a handful of you to become more complacent or believe introverts are ‘better’ than extroverts. Cain tries trie to tease out this point tactfully, but your perception could easily be skewed by the overwhelming amount of evidence on the introversion side. There is no better or worse, just different.
Quiet also paints broadly in introvert/extrovert terms, which is understandable the content’s point. Don’t forget, however, personality traits typically exhibit themselves in a range, not binary. You may be slightly more introverted or you could be completely introverted. Be wary not to box yourself in, as there are plenty of different dispositional starting points. From those starting points, your environment and goals can further nudge you one way or the other.
One other point, there is enormous value in understanding yourself and your strengths, but it would be wise to remember the extroverted ideal still exists (at least in the United States). The argument for more introvert-friendly business environments is appealing, however, if you’re an introvert you may still need to learn how to cope in less ideal circumstances (or find career alternatives) if you want to thrive. While you should design your life around what makes you happy, be aware others may challenge or encourage you to adopt this extrovert ideal for yourself. Having self-confidence (not bravado), boundaries and a strong identity are influential for happiness.
ANSWER THE EXERCISE IN THE COMMENTS:
1. Are you working toward goals opposite your natural disposition? If so, why?
2. How can you change your environment to better align with your natural disposition?
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