Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts

by Susan Cain

Robby was determined to become that confident, witty person he imitated so easily online. Being part of a band and gaining confidence from playing in front of people was a huge help. But he also counted a job at the supermarket as an important step. The summer before his senior year of high school, he landed a job as a cashier at the local market. The small talk he had to make with customers all day gave him confidence. “I had these insignificant conversations a hundred times a day. Before, I was so incredibly uncomfortable with that, but not anymore.” To Robby, this experience was a testament to the power of repetition. “You’re not going to become more confident just through willpower. Practice is important.”