What is the difference between shyness and introversion? Understand!

You've probably heard that there are difference between shyness and introversion, but, especially for those who are extroverted, this doesn't make much sense.

The fact is that although the words are considered synonymous by many, there are significant differences between the two terms in practice, and that is precisely what we will talk about today.

So, if you want to discover once and for all the difference between shyness and introversion and also receive tips for both profiles in the professional environment, stay here!

What is the difference between shyness and introversion?

Only those who are introverted know the difficulty in explaining to people that there is a difference between shyness and introversion.

This is because, especially for those with an extroverted profile, a reserved colleague is automatically interpreted as shy.

But the fact is that these two concepts have different meanings, and understanding them is essential to learn how to deal with both profiles correctly.

See below for a detailed explanation of each term:

Shyness 

When we talk about shyness we are referring to a feeling of inadequacy and social anxiety, which generates isolation behavior in the individual.

A shy person may have significant difficulty communicating and being in social environments, especially when it is in an unfamiliar place or with unfamiliar people.

The big problem with shyness is that it brings negative feelings and makes social interaction difficult. Some people even report losing their voice or being unable to walk in moments of shyness. 

Introversion 

Introversion, on the other hand, is directly related to the personality of the individual, who does not have a need for social relationships and tends to be more reserved.

In general, introverts prefer to socialize with few people, and feel comfortable being alone or with people very close to them.

For the introvert, social situations are not necessarily uncomfortable, but they prefer to experience them only when necessary, as they prefer more reserved activities. 

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Why is it so important to know the difference between shyness and introversion?

At this point you already have a good idea of difference between shyness and introversion, because as we have seen, in practice these concepts are very different.

The big difference between the two is that while shyness brings discomfort and even suffering to the individual, introversion is natural and comfortable for those with this profile..

So, basically, an introvert doesn't feel bad about talking little, or about preferring to go home to happy hour on Friday. A shy person suffers, because although they want to go, they have enormous difficulty accepting the invitation because they consider themselves inadequate.

It is very important to understand this difference, as the way to deal with a shy person must be very different from dealing with an introvert.

When you notice that a person is introverted, the best thing to do is to respect their space and understand when they refuse invitations to interact, as they feel comfortable that way.

A shy person can suffer in this same situation, as they have enormous difficulty interacting, and if colleagues simply accept their refusal, this can make the problem worse.

Therefore, when dealing with a shy person, it is essential to be respectful, kind and seek to ensure safety and include them, so that they can overcome their anxieties and be able to interact with the group.

Are shy people always introverts?

Another topic that should be clarified regarding the difference between shyness and introversion is the fact that shy people are necessarily introverted, and vice versa.

No, not every introverted person suffers from shyness, in fact, many introverted people can be highly assertive, leaving their opinions and desires properly clarified and exposed, something that a shy person would never do.

Furthermore, many extroverted people are shy precisely because they have heard inappropriate opinions their entire lives, such as: “you talk too much”, or “you should be calmer, it bothers others”. 

These opinions cause blocks for the person, who starts to feel inadequate and unwanted, which leads to shyness over time.

Therefore, shyness and introversion are not related: a shy person can be extroverted, and an introverted person may not be shy at all.

++Careers for those who like to draw: see 6 careers – VitalyBrasil

Does shyness get in the way in a professional environment?

Once we understand the concept of shyness, it is simple to understand that yes, this feeling can cause harm to the professional life of those who have it.

This is because one of the main problems with shyness is the feeling of inadequacy, which prevents the person from:

• Expose your ideas;
• Interact with the group;
• Claim your rights and opinions;
• Believing in your own potential;
• Defend your projects.

A person who faces shyness can hardly work in sales, for example, because just thinking about receiving a no of the customer, he is already terrified.

For this reason, it is essential to work on this feeling and get rid of it, in order to guarantee a prosperous and happy professional life.

Are there ideal careers for introverted people?

There is a myth in the market regarding specific careers for introverted people. But, let's reflect: why aren't there careers for extroverts?

A person's personality does not define their capabilities, and as we have seen: an introvert has no problem interacting or presenting their work to people.

Furthermore, most people do not usually expose their personality in a professional environment as they do in social situations. A neutral stance works best in this case.

For this reason, an introvert can work with whatever they want, as long as they have an affinity with the area and feel happy with their work.

Now you might be thinking, “How would an introvert work in sales, for example?” Simple: creating your own strategy.

You don't need to talk loudly, dance or expose yourself to sell, you just need to know how to attract the customer's attention and convince them in the right way.

In this case, it is worth evaluating the company's profile and the requirements for the position: if the company requires the person to expose themselves to sell, this may not work for an introvert.

Furthermore, it is worth looking for a company that is aligned with your profile, and not necessarily a profession,

This is because each professional defines their approach based on their capabilities and facilities, regardless of their area of expertise.

Read too: Careers for those who like working with the public – VitalyBrasil.