“You’re so quiet.”
“You hardly say anything.”
“You seem like you’re always deep in thought.”
These statements and more where ones that I heard early in life and still hear today. The difficult part is that they were said in a way and with a tone as if those were negative things. And since I received them as negative, I worked for years to “overcome” them and be different.
But what did it mean to be different. As I attempt to become more extroverted and outgoing, really all I became was fake. It wasn’t me. And the more I tried, the more difficult life and leadership became.
I am, by nature, an introverted, quiet person. I am analytical and reflective. And I would submit that those attributes actually make me a better leader. If you connect with those things, here are three reasons I believe the best leadership in 2025 isn’t the loudest.
- Stability – In a world of of constant change, quiet leaders bring a much-needed stability to conversations, operations, and relationships.
- Calmness – There are so many things to get upset, frustrated, and panicked about – but, quiet leaders naturally have a calmness that puts minds at ease, considers the best response, and makes moves in calculated ways.
- Values-Based – The speed of business can sometimes move at the speed of light. That puts leaders in a position to make quick, emotional, and even selfish decisions. Quiet leaders, because of the way their wired, are rooted in personal and corporate values to the point that those influence decision-making far more than the latest trend or any outside influence.
If you’re a quiet leader, you are already positioned for success because of the stability, calmness, and values-based leadership you bring to the table! Lean into it. Don’t try to be someone you aren’t. And watch as the people around you appreciate your style of leadership more and more!
Where do you fall on the spectrum of introversion to extroversion? What would you add to my list? Leave and comment and let me know!