- How to be an introverted leader without wearing yourself out
- Why the world needs introverted AND extroverted leaders
- How to use your introversion (or extroversion) to guide your leadership messaging
- An update on the Leadership Forum format
Find your place:
00:00 – 2:00: Welcome and Introduction!
2:00 – 9:26: I’m an introvert, not a hermit
9:26 – 12:57: How to be a leader without wearing yourself down.
12:57 – 15:48: Influence and boundaries.
15:48 – 22:18: Why the world needs both introverted and extroverted leaders.
22:18 – 28:30: Relating to a leader.
28:30 – 35:38: How to use introversion or extroversion in your messaging.
35:38 – 39:58: Wrap up and Leader Up Community!
I’m an introvert, not a hermit: (2:00):
Let’s start by getting some definitions out of the way. When we say introvert we are referring to someone who gains energy when they are less stimulated. That means being around fewer people, less noise, and in a generally more peaceful environment.
What it doesn’t mean is that introverts are, by nature, hermits. Some may have hermit-like tendencies (*raises hand*), but others enjoy a night out as much as anyone else. They just might need a few nights in afterwards.
Extroversion, on the other hand, happens when all of that external stuff (socialization, noise, exciting environments) adds to your energy banks. If you’re an extrovert you probably can only handle “staying in” for so long before you need to get outta the house.
Important Point: Introversion is similar to HSP (highly sensitive person), but not necessarily the same. An HSP can be an introvert or an extrovert, and is often mislabeled. I recommend heading here to read up on the nuances.
At the end of the day, whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, it’s not black and white. Everyone is at a different place on the spectrum, and everyone handles stimulation (or a lack thereof) differently.
Introversion and leadership
With the definitions out of the way, let’s talk leadership. Often, introverts can be passed up for leadership roles within companies because they’re, well, quiet (this is a broad generalization, of course). But in truth, introverts make wonderful leaders. They tend to be naturally insightful, thoughtful, and open to new ideas. They’re flexible and listen well. All of these are great leadership qualities.
How to be a leader without wearing yourself down (9:26):
First thing first: Trust your gut. You can read all the blog posts about introversion in the world, but at the end of the day you know your body best. Listen to your instincts and look for patterns. Start to figure out what amps you up and what exhausts you and what lands somewhere in the middle.
Then, figure out how you most want to be present. For example, just because public speaking exhausts you, that doesn’t mean you’re banned from public speaking. I love leading public workshops, and I’m as introverted as they come. The only difference between me and the extrovert running a similar workshop is that after we’re done I’m going to head home for a nap.
Work to your strengths (12:57):
Why the world needs both introverted and extroverted leaders (15:48):

How to use introversion or extroversion in your messaging (28:30):
- Tune into yourself and take note of when you are tired and when you are energized – Its all about what fills you up and what drains you
- Don’t live in your “box”. Take note of your comfort zones and challenge yourself to stretch them.
That’s Episode 20: Can Introverts be Leaders? Tell us all about your experience as an introverted leader in the comments below.
Catch the Leadership Forum when it goes live! Head on over to the Thought Leaders Think Tank on Facebook and request to join.