Life-Long Learning: Pat Weber Interview Part 1
Post inspiration: I have known Pat for 9 months, read her book and think it is worth investing some of my time and yours into.
My fellow INTJ and good friend Pat Weber has recently written Debunking Introvert Myths, an ebook for introverts. Prior to meeting Pat, I knew I was an introvert having taken many personality tests. What Pat brought to my life was a passion for productive, profitable and contented introverts. She has made an impression on my life, profitability, and contentment by refocusing me on how to use my natural strengths and manage areas that drain my energy. So, I thought I would introduce Pat, her work and her book through my blog to you using an interview format. Yes, there is a link at the end to buy the book and learn more. And, in the interest of full disclosure, I am an affiliate for Pat’s new book.
Q. You have a new book out providing evidence to debunk myths about introverts. Why did you write this book?
A. Part of this has been brewing in me for a few years; when the coach I had at the time helped me FINALLY uncover part of that uniqueness about me as a business coach – being a naturally gifted introvert. Then along came social media. Did you know there are more introverts on social media than extroverts? But I could see it might be that slippery slope. That extroverts would jump in and begin to put in their extrovert rules. It, social media, is so new I believe the rules are just being made so why not finally have some kind of socializing that runs by introvert rules? But first, we have to give introverts a much needed energy boost by debunking a lot of myths. So, the book.
Q. So, Pat, how long have you been an introvert?
A. LOL. If the research is true Jim, it seems all my life. Now that you asked, as I think back to being a child, I can remember aunts and uncles trying to coax me into more conversation. They would say, “Patricia, you don’t need to be so shy.” Or “Patricia, why are you always so serious.” Of course, needless to say, I came to believe these kinds of things.
Q. You and I are INTJ’s. What is the primary difference between an introvert and an extrovert?
A. This took me quite a time to understand. I think maybe because of the way Carl Jung initially explained the difference. The REAL difference centers around what energizes an extrovert or an introvert. Keeping in mind that all people introvert and extrovert all day long but we have a PREFERENCE because that’s where we find our stamina grounded. Introverting includes planning, reading, thinking, writing. Extroverting would include giving a presentation, speaking in public, attending a party, being at a networking event. I can and certainly do participate in extroverting but my preference is in introverting, hence, I’m more introverted.
Q. How can people purchase a copy of the book?
A. Jim, since it’s an ebook only right now, they can get it at http://www.coachingforintroverts.com They can get a free 32 page excerpt there before they buy.
Jim Sutton
Facilitating understanding in the digital age
Virtual World LightHouse
Web 2.0 Community & Business
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December 31st, 2009 at 13:28
[...] Jim Sutton » Blog Archive » Life-Long Learning: Pat Weber … [...]
January 1st, 2010 at 16:48
Ah, my friends. How grateful I am to you both, and the rest of our Collaborative Credibility Cluster, introverts all. I’m a flaming extrovert, as you both know. Working with you both for months, I confidently say that we need each other to turn our dreams into reality.
Here are a few interesting things I’ve observed as I’ve read your blog posts, Pat, and as we’ve all worked together. While I’m an extrovert, I need my quiet alone time beyond my work time. I am happy to walk, do my spiritual practices, garden, putter in my own space.
It’s time for me to cultivate my relationship with my Source, my Higher Self, my G-d… I’m comfortable with all names… I’m wondering if, as we become more conscious we become more balanced. As you’ve said, Pat, you’ve learned to behavior more extrovertly (if there is such a word) while out in the business world. And over the years, I’ve become more introverted.
I understand that’s the American Indian’s view of astrology… we come into physical form through one ‘gate.’ Rather than insist “that’s who I am,” my life’s journey is to walk the circle learning to value each house, and if possible, embrace the strengths of each.
That’s how I feel about how we score on Myers-Briggs or DISC or any other personality preference assessment.
We’re all two sides of the same coin, the yin and yang, black and white, the two sides of any duality.
May this year, this decade, be the one we learn to honor, respect, and optimize the integration and collaboration of our opposites.
The Energizer Bonnie
Creative Marketing & Business Development Specialist
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:33
Bonnie,
Thanks for stopping by to chat. I like “embrace the strengths of each” I see each of us with unique strengths and we are better as a group because of our different strengths. It is like an engine, tire and electrical system on a car: each different but needed for a functional car.
That was the heavy thought’s, now a splash of humor:
Why are a “wise man” and a “wise guy” opposites?
January 3rd, 2010 at 00:05
I’ll take some of your suggestions and try to apply them.
January 5th, 2010 at 09:56
Car,
Thanks for stopping by.
Jim
Beautifully manicured lawns are highly sod after. #pun
January 5th, 2010 at 18:19
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January 6th, 2010 at 21:02
Always enjoy to read/listen to Pat’s wisdom & insight on introvertism. I have learned to honor my need to recharge and to adjust my networking based on my introvert strengths. Thanks, Pat!!
January 7th, 2010 at 07:37
Sharon,
Thanks for leaving a comment. Pat’s focus on introversion has helped me also to focus on strengths.
While it does not apply to all extroverts, this bit of humor does highlight a feeling introverts have sometimes about extroverts preference for more extroverting activity and therefore more noise.
Sigh outside a muffler shop: “No appointment necessary. We hear you coming.”
January 15th, 2010 at 14:44
I LOVE that joke Sharon! I’ll borrow it.