Susan Cain presents a plethora of historical moments, research, and personal experiences to present the dilemmas and challenges introverts face in a world that values extroversion. I am reminded that my desires for being reflective, gritty, and conducive in less stimulating environments is perfectly fine. I shouldn't feel guilty for turning down the huge group dinner. It's absolutely acceptable to avoid the crosswalk if I'm not in the right state of mind to interact with other people.
I've grown up knowing how vital it is to my sanity to have my own space. The amount of personal space and tranquility I have in my physical surroundings is directly proportional to my level of comfort and productivity. Susan Cain reminds me that it's all OK for me to request for others to be more quiet - to respect my need for privacy - to let me have some time on my own to brainstorm and reflect.
Some of my favorite quotes from "Quiet,"
"Soft power is quiet persistence. The people I'm thinking of are very persistent in their day-to-day, person-to-person interactions. Eventually, they build up a team."
What a beautiful quote to remind me of how pursuing a dream, a passion, or even curiosity will show great soft power through grit.
"Anyone can be a great negotiator...and in fact it often pays to be quiet and gracious, to listen more than talk, and to have an instinct for harmony rather than conflict."
I've certainly learned the importance of listening over speaking in numerous situations. This quote deserves to be framed in every classroom as a child is growing up - the power of listening is so much more potent than that of babbling.
"Maya, for her part, sits curled up at the periphery of her group, writing her name over and over again, in big block letters, as if to reassert her identity. At least to herself."
"If you find something that arouses your passion or provides a welcome challenge, you forget yourself for a while. It's like an emotional vacation."
