Hey, we introverts aren’t grumpy, antisocial wallflowers, OK!

Workplaces would do well to consider personality diversity in their culture. Introverts, extroverts, ambiverts, all have unique strengths and qualities to contribute to their organisations. — MISSLUNAROSE12/Wikimedia Commons

At the start of 2024, I re-read a favourite book that explores introversion as a personality trait and what introverts can offer in their personal and professional lives. I shared some quotes on social media from Susan Cain’s book, Quiet (2012), and wrote about how introverts can find hyperactive environments overwhelming, especially during the run-up to holidays at the office.

I received messages from introverts and extroverts who shared their feelings of pressure from expectations to conform to what’s often referred to as “mandated fun” at work. While the intention behind fun office activities is to boost morale and foster team spirit, when people feel compelled to join in, it can have a negative impact on employees’ well-being and performance, research shows.