Thriving at Work as an Introvert: Unlock Your Potential🔓
Let's face it... Navigating the workplace as an introvert is HARD, but, with the right approach, your UNIQUE qualities can lead to massive success and fulfilment! Here are some strategies that helped me thrive in my professional life and get 2 promotions without even being qualified for my job: ⚡ Leverage Your Strengths: Deep thinking and problem-solving are just 2 of our many introverted superpowers. I always found it hard to work and simultaneously converse with a colleague, so I would just focus on my work which allowed me to notice that certain tasks took us WAAAY longer than needed. So I suggested some automations and tools which helped my entire team work more efficiently.👨💻 Most people think introversion is a disability, and that's clearly ⚡ Create Personal Boundaries: Life is short, and our social batteries shorter.🔋That's why I communicate my "communication preferences" with my managers and colleagues. All communication to be in writing (via Microsoft Teams or email) and no phone calls/meetings unless NECESSARY. I signal my availability through my office door/headphones/Teams availability. (Closed door/headphones on means DND)⛔ ⚡Find Supportive Colleagues: I've managed to find my "tribe" amongst 90+ colleagues only recently. As human beings, we innately crave to be part of a community, and even though the company is its own community, introverts value more MEANINGFUL connections. This is why I decided to step out of my comfort bubble and actively seek out the people I gel with most. Even 1 conversation a day with these people is refreshing!🫂 ⚡Schedule Recharge Breaks: I used to use abandoned back offices to meditate and practice breathwork, which helped a ton with mental fatigue and overwhelm. Now, I just take regular walks in nature to clear my head.🚶 ⚡Balance Work and Personal Time: Ensure you have a healthy balance between work and activities that recharge you. Whether it's reading, hiking, or spending time with loved ones, prioritize your well-being. For me, this was spending Sundays alone and working on a meaningful task.🧘