That dreaded question: 'What was your first impression of me?' is one that has haunted me throughout my life.
Popular answers include: Rude, snobbish, judgemental, uninterested, indifferent, cold, boring... I could go on.
I've always struggled with making a good first impression. I think this is something that most introverts will be able to relate to.
The fact of the matter is, we don't come across the best when we meet someone for the first time.
I've been referred to as a 'background character' and on occasion had people voice that they thought I didn't like them.
I'm forever envious of extroverts that are warm and bubbly from the get go, as it can take time for my personality to come out. Often times, people are shocked that I have a personality at all when compared to the quiet, reserved Illesse they first met.
For me, this is one factor of being an introvert that I struggle with the most.
I'm usually quiet around new people and naturally slip into the observer role, listening and taking things in until I feel comfortable enough to get involved myself. I very much sit on the outside looking in - I think this is the key behind some of the snap judgements people make about me.
But I promise this is not the case! If you take the time to get to know me, I think (or hope) that most people will agree, I am nothing like these initial impressions - I just take a bit longer than most to warm up to people.
9 times out of 10, I'm quiet and shy because: I'm overthinking about my posture, replaying that awkward thing I said five minutes ago, and simultaneously praying that I don't get pulled into small talk yet hoping that someone involves me in conversation.
It's an exhausting process and obviously doesn't leave a very good first impression.
So this is my plea to anyone reading this - speaking on behalf of all introverts out there, please don't judge us by our first impression.
If you take the time to get to know us, I promise it will be worth it.
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