Sid, the introvert
I AM AN INTROVERT!
I posted a photo on Instagram a while back with the caption "introvert", and while some know this about me, others, like my sister-in-law, found it shocking and asked, "Why would you make such a post, especially since you're an event planner?" Of course, people view introverts as hostile or unfriendly and assume they are antisocial or shy. While I am indeed a shy person, shyness is an emotion that I’ve always had, but I am not unfriendly. I dislike being the centre of attention, and introversion is my personality trait. I get along well with people when recharged and in my comfort zone. My sis-in-law followed up with another question, "Wouldn't you lose clients with that post?" I guess implying that introverts avoid social interaction altogether, and as an event planner, that’s a conflict. Thankfully this is not my case, I enjoy spending time with people, especially people I am familiar with, which means as my client, you will get my undivided attention as you are my focus. Before starting my own business, I worked for a government organisation, there I was actively involved in events where I had to interact with stakeholders from all over Ontario. I did well in that environment because once I returned home from a long day of work, I recharged my energy by being in a quiet space, reading a book or watching TV, and the next day, I was ready to conquer the world. People could not tell that I was indeed a quiet and reserved person. Being an introvert and being shy are two different things. It just so happened that I am a little shy as well. A shy person is generally afraid to interact with large crowds, and an introvert likes to be alone. Being alone doesn’t mean we are lonely or unfriendly. There are misconceptions about introverts that they are rude and/or antisocial. So I decided to write this blog so that you can learn more about me, Sasha Sid, the introvert.
Studies suggest that 30 to 50 per cent of the north American population are introverts. That means one out of every two or three people you know. Studies also show that not all introverts are alike, and introverts are not always shy, reserved or antisocial; some might have an ‘extroverted side’. Helping people has always been my passion, so event planning has always been my comfort zone. I love every aspect of event planning, so much so that interacting with my clients comes naturally & speaking to vendors, donors, and my brides becomes a lifestyle.
Merriam-Webster describes an introvert as a person whose personality is characterised by introversion: a typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone. Introverts are unique people, they feel more comfortable focusing on their inner thoughts and ideas and enjoy spending time with one or two people rather than with a group. Introverts generally have less dopamine activity in the brain, they are the opposite of an extrovert - someone who loves lots of interaction and feels energised by the external world.
There are four types of introverts: Social, thinking, anxious and restrained. I am a social introvert, and I like smaller groups. A social introvert values time with friends and family. Even though I could be more outgoing and my idea of fun is a brunch date with my best friends, I prefer to refrain from speaking in front of a large crowd. I give good advice one-on-one, and I am brutally honest. Introverts are known to be honest, compassionate people. They are great people to work with. So, the next time someone says they are an introvert, do not consider it unfavourable. Trust that they are one of the nicest people on this earth.
If you want to contact this introverted event planner, please email me, and we shall chat!
Love always!
Sid.