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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Building on your Quiet Strength
The book 'The Introverted Leader' by Jennifer Kahnweiler is a guide for introverts who aspire to be leaders. It provides practical techniques for effective communication, negotiation, and networking that align with introverted tendencies.
Whether it’s in a chatty classroom or at a party, it often seems that extroverts greatly outnumber introverts. But appearances can deceive: there are actually quiet people in every walk of life – and they aren’t even a minority.
In fact, introversion and extraversion are basic temperaments that are evenly distributed throughout the population.
The terms extrovert and introvert were first introduced by the psychologist C.G. Jung to distinguish between two basic personality types:
Introverts tend to direct their attention inward, focusing on their own thoughts, whereas extroverts are active, social and focus on their external environment. The two types also differ in how they recharge their mental batteries: extroverts are energized by social interaction, while introverts recover energy through quiet, solitary contemplation. Finally, their communication styles are different: extroverts are outspoken and decisive, whereas introverts are reserved, prefer listening to talking and ponder all their options before taking action.
So how many introverts are out there? Scientists interviewed different groups of people about introverted personality traits such as needing a lot of quiet time or preferring listening to talking.
The result?
About 47-55 % of the US population are introverts.
But what about business and politics – surely there is only place for extroverts there?
Indeed, our business culture does seem to favor extroverts by emphasizing the importance of socializing, decisiveness and gregariousness over introvert traits like reflectiveness or conscientousness. Yet one study shows that no less than 40% of all executives describe themselves as introverts. The most famous of them all was probably President Abraham Lincoln, known for his tendency to frequently withdraw inside himself: he would often be found alone in his library reading law books instead of socializing.
Kahnweiler explores the specific challenges introverts face in an extroverted business world. She then sets out to show how introverted executives can push their limits, employ their characteristic strengths and still become great leaders.
The Introverted Leader (2011) is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand and harness the power of introverted leadership. Here are three reasons why this book stands out:
There is a difference between introversion and shyness. Shyness is driven by fear and social anxiety
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Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Get startedBlink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
What is the main message of The Introverted Leader?
The main message of The Introverted Leader is that introverts can be effective leaders by leveraging their unique strengths.
How long does it take to read The Introverted Leader?
The reading time for The Introverted Leader varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is The Introverted Leader a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Introverted Leader is a valuable read for anyone seeking leadership insights. It provides practical strategies and inspiration for introverted leaders.
Who is the author of The Introverted Leader?
The author of The Introverted Leader is Jennifer Kahnweiler.