I completely agree that we have a harder time socially because we're constantly being faced with situations that are stressful for us. But I agree with Dan that we're more introspective, although that in itself can sometimes cause some discomfort.

Would be less stressful if more people understood introversion and displayed some consideration. I find it is usually only the other introverts who understand. The other stressful part is that I do like to have some people in my life some of the time, but it is more difficult to manage.

I agree with all the comments here!

We live in a personality driven culture. That's for sure. I read recently that the top schools in this country seek out extroverts for their student body, as they are more likely than not to be successful contributing allumni.

Introverts are rarely the personalities others seek out and I believe there are strategies we should use as we seek new jobs and positions. But first, we have to learn to see our introversion as a strength.

Things are changing. Being shy and quiet is not the curse it used to be. My new school superintendent is very introverted. I'm using my knowledge in my position to teach other teachers about how to engage quieter students as well.

I think you are right. I believe there are more extroverts than introverts and they tend to think they are the way everyone should be. They put pressure on us to be like them, but they wouldn't dream of trying to be like us.

I find that most people don't understand introversion and that can be stressful. It's like they automatically expect me to be open and inviting when most of the time I'm just not. Not because I'm being rude or inconsiderate, I just don't feel the need to talk about anything and everything. People don't understand why I prefer to stay at home or that I get overwhelmed pretty quickly when I'm out. I am pretty bad at maintaining friendships, simply because I won't contact them for a while. Again, not being rude, I just don't feel the need to know every little detail from their day to day. I find that most people's lives don't change that drastically in a month or two and I don't like telling someone the same thing I've already told them. I feel like I'm just being boring in that case. Since most don't seem to understand that, they think I'm mad or don't like them and just kind of stop trying.

I have found being an introvert is stressful. I've spent my life moving a great deal and having to constantly meet new people. It has been exhausting. I have thought life would have been easier as an extrovert.