Mark Zuckerberg was already known to millions worldwide as the Harvard dropout who started the world’s largest social network in his tiny dorm room.
Today, his persona has expanded to epic proportions as Facebook’s IPO has made him the third wealthiest tech entrepreneur in the United States (and among the top 30 richest people in the world, population 7 billion).
People who have followed Facebook and Zuckerberg’s meteoric rise know that Zuckerberg is an introvert. And he’s not one of these closet introverts who looks like an extrovert to anyone who doesn’t know it. His introversion is fairly obvious and well-documented.
The good news for Zuck (that’s his Facebook username, so I trust I can be that cozy) is that introvert sentiment is on the upswing. It’s almost hip to be an introvert and to be who you are, in all of your introvert glory.
So here are a few “introvert, honor thyself” thoughts for you, Zuck, to consider as the spotlight goes from bright to blinding.
One of the things I noticed right away when I started my business was that it was much easier to be outgoing and social online than it was in real life. I could do things at my own pace, sit back and watch for a while before jumping in, and I generally felt in control. Contrast that to a live social situation where anything can happen – I could forget someone’s name, draw a blank when someone asks me a question or spill my drink on a new acquaintance when I go to shake their hand.
I’ve learned over the years that I’m not alone. There are lots of introverts who describe themselves as extroverts online, and introverts IRL, or in real life. My guest, Morgan Barnhart of Sociable Boost, gives us some insights to help us bridge the divide.
I’ve never had a problem with dining alone, especially if I have something to read. It’s actually a pleasant way to recharge, be intentional about enjoying my food, people watch and eavesdrop (shhh!). The only sucky part about dining alone is the greeter who says, “Only one of you today?” while looking at me with upraised eyebrows that hint at a touch of pity.
But those days are over, thanks to “Invite for a Bite”! The launch of this new site provoked some serious conversation on Facebook, as well as inspired a few tips for people who see “Table for One” as the kiss of death.
Comedians often highlight the absurd truths in society, and introvert – yes, introvert – Jerry Seinfeld is especially skilled at shining the light on our contradictory natures. Here’s what he has to say about public speaking: “According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy.”
The fear of public speaking is called Glossophobia, which comes from the Greek glossa, meaning tongue, and phobos, fear or dread. My guest for this podcast, Jonathan Bender, has dedicated his business to changing the way people – especially introverts and glossophobes – think about themselves and being on stage and in the spotlight.
“If you want it done right, do it yourself.”
The words of an introvert, me thinks!
Introverts and independence go hand-in-hand. It doesn’t mean that other people aren’t important to us; we simply are more deliberate and even cautious about who we invite into our inner world. A recent conversation with a professional singer and self-professed introvert reminded me of why we will sometimes do *anything* to find a solution to a challenge, other than ask another person for help.
