In class, we talked about how introverts should be revered and make great leaders. This is absolutely true as some of the world's greatest leaders have indeed, been introverts. And while I think that social skills are important, I do not think our generation prioritizes them. Maybe it's my friend circle, but I feel like this generation more introverted than extroverted.
I think that society and even businesses have changed their models in order to pander and assist introversion. We see this in the form of delivery apps - and the fact, that in today's world, you can get everything delivered to you without having the need to step outside. While this is absolutely ingenious, I often feel isolated with the rising trend of introverted pride.
Technology does make it too easy to be introverted, but technology alone is not the issue. I use it all day long, and yet, technology does not form my, or anyone else's, perceptions alone. It's not like technology is the reason that I, wrongly, could feel bad or be negatively stereotyped for being social.
A constant Catch-22 situation I routinely face is when a fellow introverted friend of mine does decide to be social - it's usually my number they dial. While I love spending time with people, it feels unfair that someone is using my time, charisma, and energy when it's convenient for them - and then not lift the phone for weeks. In general, an average text message I get is prefaced with some iteration of "I haven't been out in a while, are you doing anything this weekend?"
It's not like the 'shaming' for either introverts or extroverts is done literally, or even directly. A more common example is that people are so proud to be introverted, that, in turn, they put down extroverts or else form negative perceptions.
There's a stereotype that extroverts are always having fun and partying.
That's not remotely true - most of the extroverts I know are either doing a combination of classes, jobs, internships, and other projects - myself included. In fact, it's due to my extroversion that I have the energy to keep going and stay busy.
It's unfair to be handling all those responsibilities, like anyone else (introverts included), but also being expecting to host and/or plan all the social events of your friend group. Or else, always be in a good mood to hang out, when introverts get to be selective about it. It's like there's a stereotype that we as extroverts don't get tired. And we constantly face disappointment when we do.
Additionally, if you happen to know more introverts than extroverts, as an extrovert you're going to inevitably act the role and initiate plans anyway - only to most likely get rejected, or not be around your first choice. And if an extrovert stops trying to initiate plans, then they get complained at. Introverts have phones too, you know?
Friendships should go both ways, and it's a bit ridiculous to expect someone to take on social responsibilities, in addition to their day-to-day ones, because they happen to be more sociable. So, like we have started to celebrate introversion, let's take a moment to celebrate our fellow extroverts for putting in all the effort between the lines.
