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Introversion is Not A Disability

…it ‘can’ be a superpower

Selali Onuoha
2 min readOct 7, 2021
Image credit: Marie Chénier

“Silence is golden”

“Empty barrels make the most noise”

“Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding”

This world is not built for or by introverts.

It is loud, brash, gregarious and imposing at the best of times — and it embraces those who speak the same language.

People who are introverted tend to be inward turning, or focused more on internal thoughts, feelings and moods rather than seeking out external stimulation.

But there is a lot of wisdom pointing to the power of introverts who make up 20 to 40% of the population.

However few are willing to listen long enough to the many writers, thinkers, loners, dreamers, seers and oracles who have deep wells of knowledge to share.

Photo credit: Verywell

The ability to enjoy solitude is a superpower.

The ability to become singularly in tune with your thoughts and feelings is a superpower.

The ability to think deeply and fully is a superpower.

The fact that the world can’t or won’t see that does not make it any less super or powerful either.

But more importantly, introverts don’t need them to.

That is one of the many wonderful qualities about introversion, it often is its own reward — no external validation needed.

Keep the crowds of ululating fans, the peer pressure and social expectations.

The world is full enough of empty-headed posers filled with mostly hot air (cough Donald Trump cough).

Introverts have little need to add to the maddening chaos of it all and that is something we should all be grateful for.

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Selali Onuoha
Selali Onuoha

Written by Selali Onuoha

Entrepreneur. Reader. Life-long Learner. I write to educate and inspire. She/her. Contact: mno22@cornell.edu

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