Being an Introvert in a World That Rewards Extroverts
People are always surprised when I say I’m introverted.
Probably because I talk to founders, manage communities, have worked in the service industry for years and put myself out there... a lot.
But here’s the truth:
I’m an introvert who happens to care deeply about people — and that means I need to manage my energy like it’s premium fuel.
Because we live in a time where being extroverted feels like the “golden ticket” to opportunity:
Loud networking rooms
Rapid-fire small talk
“Always be on” culture
Show up everywhere, meet everyone, shake every hand
It’s beautiful in its own way — connection is powerful — but as an introvert, it can also feel like trying to run a marathon in shoes that are half a size too small.
You can finish the race… but you feel it.
So how do I survive (and thrive) in this world?
I don’t try to become someone I’m not.
I don’t force myself to “fake extrovert energy.”
Instead, I play to my strengths:
- I create intentional connections
- I focus on depth over volume
- I choose quality time over constant presence
- I recharge unapologetically
And most importantly, I show up in ways that feel true to me.
For example:
If I need a quiet morning before a big event? I take it.
If I need one meaningful conversation instead of ten shallow ones? That counts.
If I have to disappear after networking to sit in silence and stare at a wall? (Introverts get it.) I do that too.
If you're an introvert trying to navigate opportunity spaces… here are a few things that help:
- Prep before social situations.
Not scripts, just intention. Who do you want to talk to? What curiosity can you bring? - Take breaks when you need them.
Find a corner. Step outside. Hide in the bathroom. Yes, I said it. - Remember: one real conversation > twenty forced ones.
You’d be surprised how much that one connection can change things. - Ask questions. Let others talk.
Introverts are natural listeners, that’s a superpower. - Build your network slowly, intentionally.
You don’t need to meet everyone. You just need to meet the right people over time.
Why I’m helping to build community spaces like Jersey City Tech Meetup
JCTM isn’t just for extroverted founders, builders, and tech minds.
It’s for:
the quiet thinkers
the creative problem-solvers
the people who need a moment before they jump in
the ones who love connection but hate chaos
Because tech shouldn’t just be loud rooms and fast handshakes.
It should also be safe spaces for curiosity, ideas, and slow but steady relationship building.
We’re not here to perform.
We’re here to grow — together, at our own pace.
To every introvert building in a loud world:
You don’t need to be everywhere.
You don’t need to talk the most.
You don’t need to be “on” all the time.
Just be intentional, be present when it matters, and take care of your energy.
Opportunities aren’t only for extroverts — they’re for people who show up authentically.
And trust me, the right rooms will feel like home.
If you read this and felt seen, welcome.
You’re not alone in this space.
And if you ever want a tech community where you can breathe, learn, connect, and grow in a way that feels natural…
You already know where to find us.
🖤 JCTM