Reading this book is like listening to her Ted Talk, but longer and more comprehensive. Born as an introvert in an extroverted society, observed, interviewed, and helped other introverts recognizing their qualities, Susan Cain shares stories, tips and how-to to navigate being introverts but still fulfilling the expected roles.
I’m lucky though to be born in the eastern society that accepted being shy (introverts) as something common, although education nowadays urges kids to collaborate more in doing group tasks (yes, we’re looking up to western curriculum). But as this book suggests, introversion is not a flaw. It is a soft power: “there’s often a subtle way to get what you want. It’s not always aggressive, but it can be very determined and very skillful. In the end, much is achieved because of it. Aggressive power beats you up, soft power wins you over.” pg. 197
There is one story about her introvert client in the earlier pages of the book. She was a Wall Street lawyer, but unlike the stereotype Wall Street lawyer or any lawyer at all, she’s quiet, dreading spotlight and disliked aggression. However, when she’s in negotiation she makes use of her quiet power. She questions a lot, really listens to the answers no matter how cross it might come, and fights back with calm persistence and determination. The key is she’s doing her homework, and that I realize I must do too. When you’re an introvert, always come more prepared.
Dream Beads 