The Humanevi newsletter
Weekly
Once a week: 5 things worth your time.
1 story, 1 idea, 1 discovery, 1 tool, 1 book.
The Humanevi newsletter
Once a week: 5 things worth your time.
1 story, 1 idea, 1 discovery, 1 tool, 1 book.
Susan Cain examines how culture rewards extroversion and shows the strengths of introverts at work, at school and in life.
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Cain, a former lawyer, argues that Western societies have come to reward those who speak loudly and decide fast, sidelining the contributions of more reflective people. The book blends psychology research, reporting and personal account, and covers open-plan offices, group work and the point that shyness and introversion are not the same thing.
Introverts who feel out of place in settings that demand constant exposure, and those who live with or manage them, such as parents, teachers and leaders. It is also useful for anyone thinking about how to run meetings and workspaces that give different temperaments a voice.
Released in 2012, it was written against the background of American companies and schools, and its critique of constant teamwork reflects that setting. Some studies cited have since been debated, and the tone is that of advocacy. It has chapters on culture, the biology of temperament and relationships.
Any complete edition will do, and the audiobook suits a narrative text. If you buy a translation, note that titles vary by country. To go further, read Drive on autonomy at work and Peak on how skill is built through solitary, focused practice.
