Simplify Introversion: Susan Cain on Quiet Strength

In this episode of Simplify, Susan Cain discusses the ways in which introverts and extroverts react differently to stimulation and why we often overlook the strengths of introverts. Giving introverts permission to be themselves not only makes them feel better, it can unlock their potential. With a few simple tweaks, schools and workplaces can create an environment in which introverts are better able to use their unique strengths to benefit everybody.

“The magic thing that I have heard over and over again is that the more introverts feel entitled to be who they are and proud of being who they are, the more paradoxically successful and comfortable they are performing outward-facing jobs.”Susan Cain

This episode of Simplify packs a quiet punch. Susan Cain reveals what sets introverts apart, why our culture mistakenly views leadership as synonymous with extroversion and the powerful ways in which we can all benefit from seeing more introverts in leadership positions.

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Who’s Susan Cain?

Susan Cain, Photo by Albrica Tierra

Susan Cain is the author of the bestselling book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, as well as its companion book for teens, Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids. Her 2012 TED Talk about introversion has been viewed over 20 million times, and is considered one of the most popular of all time. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, as well as other publications. Susan has spoken to hundreds of companies, associations, schools and parenting groups about providing environments in which introverts can thrive through her accurately named organization, Quiet Revolution.

Extra Credit Reading

If you would like to dive deeper into some of the topics Susan Cain covers in this Simplify episode, check out this book list composed by Ben and Caitlin!

This classic book from 1936 exemplifies the culture of Personality Cain describes in our interview, and continues to provide readers with very useful information about getting by in our very social world to this day. Carnegie’s simple advice for social interactions can be useful for introverts and extroverts alike.

Chances are, you have taken a personality test sometime in your life. In this fascinating book, Emre takes a deep dive into the history and validity of the Myers-Briggs Test Indicator and brings up an important question: Do we know enough about the nature of personality tests to confidently claim that they know anything about us?

Can’t get enough information about how introverts can make great leaders? This book is a perfect complement to Susan Cain’s and provides readers with more great tips for how to succeed in leadership within our extroverted business culture.

What’s Simplify?

Simplify is a podcast for anybody who’s taken a close look at their habits, their happiness, their relationships, or their health and thought “There’s got to be a better way to do this.” We talk to bestselling writers, productivity wizards, sex geniuses, and happiness experts to find it for you.

Simplify is made with love by Blinkist. Click here to try Blinkist free for 14 days with the voucher code: quiet

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Talk to us!

We want to hear from you! Drop a line to us at [email protected] about whatever tickles your fancy.

If you want to say hi to Ben and Caitlin in the meantime, you can find them on Twitter: @bsto and @CaitlinSchiller.

Who made this?

Your hosts are Caitlin Schiller and Ben Schuman-Stoler.

Research and production assistance by Ines Bläsius, sound and editing by Florian Tippe.

Got links?

Susan Cain’s Website

The Quiet Revolution

Susan Cain’s Newsletter

Read the transcript here!