I liked this book. It was a nice exploration of how introverts can perform well in the modern world where a lot of extroverted qualities are emphasized. Our world, especially the western one has an Extrovert Ideal where extroverted qualities are desired and rewarded. However, the author would argue it really shouldn’t be that way.
My best quick summary is that extroverts tend to get more credit, but introverts tend to get better results. That’s not to crap on extroverts completely, there are plenty of good qualities and introverts can and should learn some extroverted traits when needed.
A smart introvert should learn how to manage within the world around them and that may mean going outside of their comfort zone. However, it also means setting yourself up for success by putting yourself in a position to succeed. An example would be taking a job that requires deep concentration rather than one that requires a ton of socialization.
Another interesting idea is that introverts are not necessarily against being social. Some introverts can be quite social, but only in limited settings, like one on one. Introverts actually tend to talk about deeper topics and don’t like small talk as much as extroverts do.
Another interesting observation from the book is that brainstorming sessions really don’t work. At least, they don’t work as well as giving each member some time to think on their own. No matter how you run the session, people will still be reticent to put out stupid ideas, so they’re less likely to share. It’s better to have each person make their own list of ideas and then compare them at the end. You’ll end up with more ideas overall, even after accounting for repeats.
So I’d say this book is worth reading (or listening to, as I did). I do think it validates some of my feelings as an introvert. At a minimum, it tells me that it’s okay and there’s nothing wrong with being one. At a best, it actually gives some strategies for dealing with the limitations of being one. That’s a nice mix overall.