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Old 05-01-2009, 11:02 PM   #6
kms
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Being introverted IS an in-born personality trait that we can't change or control, at least according to psychologists and social science researchers. However, being introverted doesn't mean feeling uncomfortable with yourself or having the inability to express yourself, and shouldn't be used as a cover for our own insecurities or weaknesses. Being introverted simply means that you are comfortable with silence, that you need to think over and understand something fully before being able to talk about it (vs extroverts who need to talk things out in order to understand them). And no, there's nothing wrong with being an introvert. Philosophically speaking, many positive things have been said about those who are comfortable with silence and who don't talk much... and typically (being an introvert myself), people really listen and take notice when you say something, since it's something that may not happen as often and is therefore more meaningful.

Yet, feeling uncomfortable with yourself isn't related to being introverted - but is more related to your self-esteem and other issues that may be going on. It would certainly be worth exploring what reasons are causing you feel uncomfortable acting something out in front of others. Just as an example, even though I'm pretty introverted, I'm fine with acting out things in front of others because I find it easier to put on a show than reveal my true self. You may want to really sit down and think about all the things that you are uncomfortable with, and analyze what might be truly causing your discomfort. Is it because you don't have a very good opinion of yourself? Is it because you want to mask certain (perceived) weaknesses, and these activities highlight them? Once you figure this out, you can begin to address the real issues. And also just to add, practice makes perfect. If you aren't used to acting things out or doing certain things, it will be weird and uncomfortable. But don't give up: just keep trying and it will get easier and easier.
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