Tag: introvert myth | Introvert in business

The chemical nature of introversion

Last updated Jul 30, 2022

Introversion is a personality factor which is at least partly explained by biochemical make up. Neurotransmitters are chemicals we all have inside us. Two which are highly relevant to introversion and extroversion.

Dopamine helps us prepare for time with people and challenges. Introverts are more sensitive to it than extroverts, so get tired around people more quickly

Acetylcholine increases alertness and blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, where introverts have thicker grey matter. This is where abstract thought and decision-making are seen.

So introversion / extroversion is real. Introverts going to find some things harder than extroverts and be better at others. A good leader will help their whole team work on their joint strengths.

How do you lead people to get the most from all of them?

Being an introvert and a leader

Last updated Jul 25, 2022

Is introversion a barrier to leadership and are introverts authentic? This episode of Activate Your Introvert features a discussion with Sharon Barton.

The problem with authenticity at work

Last updated Jul 25, 2022

There’s a fundamental problem with the idea that being authentic at work is the solution to team performance and something a leader has to show and strive for. It’s an idea which has been overstated and seems to have more in common with the modern trend of over sharing and splurging personal feelings on social media.

Introverts are no more, or less authentic, than extroverts; even though they may spend less time-sharing personal views and feelings. In fact they value being part of a close knit team.

Looking at what authenticity is reveals that psychological safety at work needs to come first and that this is what a leader should strive for, rather than authenticity.

How are you working on the psychological safety in your team?

Introversion, extroversion and Ego.

Last updated Jun 27, 2022

Many people wonder if ego and introversion/ extroversion are linked, they’re not. Both introverts and extroverts can have oversize egos, making the difficult to work with. This article examines what introverts and extroverts can be like if they have an oversized ego.

The futility of happiness scores

Last updated May 16, 2022

In a recent article in the Daily Telegraph staff in Downing Street have accused Boris Johnson’s new top team of “patronising them” by installing so-called ‘happy machines’ around No 10 to monitor how aides are feeling. Are such measures futile or worthwhile when it...