Is There A Direct Link Between Reading And Being An Introvert?
Since I can remember, I’ve loved reading. I always have. And since I can remember, also, I’ve always been an introvert. And the more I get to know other people who love reading, the more I find one thing in common with them: they’re introverted. So, is there some kind of direct connection between reading and being an introvert?
Of course, I’m not saying every reader is an introvert. And I’m glad there are tons of different people, with different personalities, who like to read. Otherwise, we would just get bored to death with each other. But since the majority of readers I know are somewhat introverts, I can’t help but wonder about this.
Let’s start with parts. My favorite thing about reading is the book’s ability to make me dive deep in a made-up world. I get so immersed in the story because it makes me live other lives, many fantasies, and forget about the real world – at least for a bit. Taking this into consideration, I can easily see the appeal of reading for introverts. Who doesn’t like being quiet in a corner, living a thousand different lives, stuck in a fantasy world that makes you forget about your real-life problems? It’s an escape. When the real world gets too overwhelming, reading a book is what makes you slow down and keep your sanity.
There are several findings in research that point out the many advantages of reading. It makes you relax, it helps you with your memory, it makes you more empathetic, and so on…However, many might say reading a book isn’t productive or very helpful for people who don’t come out of their comfort zones. Research couldn’t disagree more.
If we think about it, reading is a lonely activity. It’s only you, your mind and the narrative. Since introverts thrive on being alone with their thoughts, it’s no wonder that a book is so appealing to them. This isn’t so bad – it’s not like you’re wasting time while getting lost in a book. After all, research shows that fiction increases empathy and social intelligence. If you enter the character’s mind as if it is your own, you’re practicing empathy. And introverts are very good at observing and understanding people – indeed, they are the best listeners!
Reading also stimulates your mind, and by giving you the opportunity to explore things without ever leaving the house, it’s great to make you consider doing things you had never even dreamed about. So, reading doesn’t actually make you more isolated from the world.
Summing up, the link between reading and being an introvert is evident. Despite the fact that it’s not a mutually exclusive relation, it’s understandable how reading can be attractive to introverts. Nevertheless, introverts should continue reading, as researchers have shown us. There’s nothing wrong with our love for reading, and whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, the fact is reading is good for us all.
