Quiet people have the loudest minds. – Stephen Hawking

Reading this book felt like reading about myself. A few years ago I read the book Quiet, and this one written by Laurie Helgoe was the perfect follow-up. As a psychologist and introvert herself, Laurie unveils the power of introversion and helps others to nurture their naturally inward-oriented life. The first part of the book outlines introversion, the types of introverts, and the inherent power that lies within each introvert. The second part of the book focused heavy on practical tips for being a happy and healthy introvert in an extroverted society without compromising an introvert’s nature and inner power.

The great omission in American life is solitude…which is the incubator of the spirit. – Marya Mannes

Takeaways

• Solitude is not lack.
• We are not just social animals, we are solitary animals as well.
• We tend to view alone time either as a problem to be overcome or a luxury we cannot afford – not as a staple we all need.
• For an introvert especially, movement away from the group allows access to a more independent, questioning, and honest voice – a voice that could make all the difference.
• The ability to be alone is one of the most important signs of maturity in emotional development.
• Solitude is often unpleasent…at first.
• Introverts can appear closed to off to society with their solitary pursuits, but rather are opening up new frontiers of their imagination.

Would you consider yourself and introvert? How do you nurture your own inner life? I tend to do this by reading books, cleaning, and walking my dogs. I never thought I’d actually look forward to cleaning my own home, but age does funny things to you.