The main focus in Susan Cain’s book is on the quiet uncelebrated introvert. We spend so much time enamored of the Tony Robbins of the world, but couldn’t we use a little more time listening to those who don’t often speak-up? We need to set aside time for the thinkers, the dreamers, and those who speak only when it really matters. Allowing introverts their quiet reflective time can bring out the Tsunami of an idea. Author Susan Cain also points out that some of the greatest thinkers were introverts like Einstein, Newton, and even Dr. Suess.

One of the great things this book does is to identify why people are introverted and how they can use those inherit traits (calm, resolute, reflective) to be very effective in any work environment, even as CEOs of major corporations. It made me think a great deal about how to work with those who may need more space or may take more time to come to a conclusion. Those who are introverted, as I myself am, need to find a balance of stimulation in their life. It provides excellent advice for those who are introverted, how to create an environment for success, and how to harness their power to bring out the best in them.

If you read only one chapter, read chapter nine. It talks about when you should act more extroverteed than you really are, but also to identify when you are acting like a pseudo-extrovert. She even goes further than this analysis and confidence building, but also goes into relationship advice and parenting. This is a whole new category that we need to pay more attention to other than the occasional Myers-Briggs testing. I think the most important point was that whatever your personality you have to find your right stimulation balance and stand firm in that need. It will lead to a happier and better balanced life.