Why We Write: The Benefits of Writing for Introverts
I’ve loved writing for as long as I can remember. Like most writers I often struggle to put my thoughts into words but when I finish a writing project I feel energized and pumped.
And I feel motivated to continue writing.
I experienced this when I wrote my first book: The Dynamic Introvert Leading Quietly with Passion and Purpose. It took me two years of research, writing and editing before the book was ready to share with the world.
During that time I enjoyed periods of deep focus when I was quietly researching and writing and feelings of excitement and happiness when I completed key milestones along the way.
What I didn’t completely understand at the time was that my brain was releasing the chemical acetylcholine to help me stay focused and dopamine to reward me for accomplishing my goals.
Knowing How Your Brain Works
Introvert and fellow writer Kyrus Keenan Westcott writes
“knowing how your brain works is the first step to making choices that support your well-being.”
Knowing when you need a boost of dopamine and knowing how to trigger the neurotransmitter acetylcholine is crucial.
Introverts’ brains are wired to seek a balance between dopamine and acetylcholine.
And, according to Aaron Campbell, another introverted writer, being in this zone feels invigorating:
“Being overstimulated can make your mind feel hyperative and unfocused while being under stimulated results in feeling lethargic, unmotivated and mentally sluggish.”
It has been said that extroverts thrive on dopamine while introverts rely more on acetylcholine. But in reality we need both of these neurotransmitters at different times. Extroverts get energized when socializing, working in teams and talking through problems. Introverts are more sensitive to dopamine and can become overwhelmed when they are with people in noisy environments. Of courst introverts enjoy socializing and talking too but they need more time alone to recover their energy.
Writing Is a Great Occupation for Introverts
Writing is considered a great occupation for introverts. It’s something we can do quietly on our own. Of course writing has other benefits like contributing to our well-being and helping us find out voice.
“Finding your voice means discovering and expressing your authentic perspective–the unique way you see the world that emerges from your experiences, values, and deepest convictions. It’s not about becoming louder or more confident; it’s about uncovering what you genuinely think and have the courage to share it.” Dan Cumberland.
Finding Your Voice
For years I sat on the sidelines watching with envy as people around me spoke up and shared their thoughts and ideas. As a leader I was expected to contribute in meetings but I lacked the courage to say very much. Things began to change when I joined Toastmasters and my only regret is that I didn’t join Toastmasters earlier in my career.
You may not want to learn public speaking. Becoming a confident speaker takes practice and time which you may not have.
Learning to write is also a great way to find your voice but it also takes time to learn the skills and to write well. There are lots of ways to get your message across including blog posts, articles, emails, policies, short stories and books.
Recently Faith Brooklyn, a book marketing expert, told me that,
“The introverted leadership conversation has moved primarily to LinkedIn and professional podcasts.”
LinkedIn encourages members to share their writing in the form of articles which can be posted on its website.
If you can’t see yourself joining Toastmasters, writing may be the perfect way for you to establish your voice. Over time you will find that writing boosts your confidence and helps you establish yourself as an authority.
Introverts and extroverts need dopamine in differing amounts. Dopamine is linked to motivation, reward and pleasure but too much dopamine can have disastrous effects especially for introverts.
Understanding how your brain works is an important first step in supporting your health and well-being.