There are roughly 7.68 billion people in the world, and roughly 25 to 50 percent of the population identify as being an introvert. According to Dictionary.com, an introvert is defined as a person who is shy, not very outgoing and tends to not socialize unless absolutely necessary. Many see being an introvert as a bad thing, but there are many qualities introverts possess that make them better human beings. For example, introverted people are often good listeners, self-sufficient, very observant and committed to goals.

Many people believe that being an extrovert is more desirable. This means that extroverts are more likely to go out of their way to start conversations, and generally try to be more involved in the situation around them. The world has been known to favor extroverts, from school to the workplace, even at home.

“The nature of the extrovert makes that personality type seem to stand out more but introverts have played important roles in history as well.  Typically, introverts are seen as “backward and shy” but I believe that is because so few in the world are educated to the differences between the two personality types,” said Mrs.Porter

When it comes to the argument of “which side is better: introvert or extrovert?” most people mention the point that extroverts are leaders, and without them, no one would be able to lead. While this is true, not all good leaders are extroverts. In fact, in history, there have been several introverts who have had revelations and even helped in revolutions.

“Everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid,” Albert Einstein said.

Einstein is one example of a famous introvert that truly touched the world with his talent and intelligence. He came up with the theory of relativity and assisted with creating the idea and plans for the first atomic bomb. Rosa Parks, J.K. Rowling and Bill Gates are some other examples of famous introverts. Without these introverts, the world would not be the same as it is today.

Though introverts aren’t usually found in leadership positions, it is important to note that they are just as crucial when it comes to being workers. Introverts tend to focus on the task ahead of them without getting too caught up in other ideas; this makes them beneficial workers. In order for leaders to lead, they need to have people that follow them — in this case, people who work for them. So, without introverts, businesses would not be as successful.  

Introverts have been found to be creative and more open to others’ ideas. Their creativity stems from their desire to express how they feel through different media other than speaking, whether it’s through art, writing or music. In work, introverted bosses are more likely to encourage and let an idea someone has grow and be developed by that person, whereas extroverts could get excited over the idea so much so that they try to take it on.

“Working together is beneficial in every way because everyone has something to offer and everyone has something valuable to give. The reality is that extroverts and introverts tend to work very well together and compliment each other with their strengths,” said Mrs. Porter.

In all, it’s important to know that both introverts and extroverts are important and have their own pros and cons. What truly needs to be done is work towards more acceptance of introverts in society and less spread of negative stigma about them. By doing so, everyone can work at their full potential and better the world together.