Being an introvert means different things to different people.

Often misunderstood; introverts are passed off as shy, unsociable and even insecure.

Now some introverts may be, but these characteristics aren’t mutually exclusive.

The Oxford Dictionary defines Introverts as:

‘A shy, reticent person. A person predominantly concerned with their own thoughts and feelings rather than with external things.’

Again, there is some truth to this definition – but what does being an introvert mean to me?

Having anxiety, the lines between my anxieties and my introvert nature aren’t always clear. The two blur into each other making it difficult to pinpoint the reasons behind my actions.

But they make me who I am, and I am content with that.

I am an introvert.

I am my anxieties.

However, I am also confident.

I am also sociable.

My introvert personality may be dominant, but that doesn’t mean I cannot channel extrovert qualities in different situations.

My family and friends would describe me as outgoing and talkative.

New people I meet would describe me as timid and shy.

In the workplace, my colleagues and peers see a mixture of both depending on things such as my mood or how I slept the night before.

If I am feeling tired, I naturally slip into my introvert persona as it is comfortable and natural (being able to wear earphones in the office is crucial on these days).

It uses up a lot energy channelling extrovert behaviours, and too much social activity can leave me emotionally and psychologically exhausted.

With two thirds of the population being extroverts, few people understand that even engaging in conversations can be exhausting.

However, being quiet or even laid-back doesn’t mean I am not engaged; Introverts tend to have a naturally calm demeanour which unfortunately can be confused with being 'detached'.

It’s important to help your colleagues understand that this isn’t the case and take them through the journey. Introverts just need time to recharge in the comfort of their own mind, and surrounding yourself with understanding and empathetic people can make all the difference.