An Introvert’s Guide to Surviving in the Big Bold Copy World

Picture this: A shy, reticent teenager for whom words were her ultimate cocoon of comfort. While the world was busy socialising, she would prefer to stay in her room, wrapped up in her favourite blanket, and just read. She would read until she felt the stories from the books became so intertwined with her own life that she could no longer tell one apart from the other.

All you introverted souls, relate much?

But what this introverted teen, all of 15 years, did not comprehend then, was the fact that one day she would put her words to work by stepping into the big, bold world of writing.

The initial days

After graduation, with a spring in my step and a head full of dreams, I decided to pursue my love for writing. But, where do I start? Post a lot of trial and error and multiple failed attempts, I found myself interning at a reputed advertising agency.

While the writer in me was beyond elated, the introvert in me struggled to adjust. Booming with life, I was surrounded by people who were raring to go and situations that were chaotic (to say the least!). Although overwhelming, having a supportive mentor who loved solitude as much as I did and whose creative thinking was inspiring, were the things that kept me going.

The next few years went by in a jiffy, with me rediscovering my love for words and finding my footing in the copy world. On one hand, I learned the basic yet vital nuances of writing, and on the other hand, I still preferred coming home to my space and my books (who understood my mood and gave me the solace I needed). It was through books I realised that some of the most prominent writers like John Green and Jane Austen, amongst others were self-proclaimed introverts (and what a relief it was for me to hear that!)

When push comes to shove

That’s exactly when you need to believe in the universe’s magic.

Things were moving; in fact, things were going well. I had just entered the digital media space and absorbed all the learnings coming my way. But, a toxic environment and absurd timings took their toll on me.

With everything going around, I started second-guessing myself for my choice of career as a writer. But, as they say, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. It’s all about waiting and hoping. And voila! Copylove, in its entirety, proved to be that light.

From the time I joined to this day, I have had this unique chance to collaborate with some of the best minds and wonderful souls. But above all, one of the major aspects that Copylove worked for me was the fact that it was a WFH setup. The introvert in me was delighted because, not only did I get opportunities to explore as a writer, but I could do all of that from my most cherished place – my home.

If you ask me, being an introvert has proved to be a boon rather than a bane (unlike what I thought initially). In all of these years and through my experiences, here’s what I have learnt:

Believe, believe, believe

An introvert and a writer are a lethal combination. We are the silent revolutionaries who can weave magic with our words. All we need is to believe in ourselves (a little more than what we usually do) and our work, and a little self-motivation that goes a long way.

Use our silence to our advantage

The ability to listen and reflect is one of our strongest suits. Being great observers, we introverts can take a step back, pay attention to detail, and assess our strengths, weaknesses, and experiences before proceeding further. Trust me, sometimes our silence can work wonders when we least expect it.

Let the sensitivity reflect in the writing

Writing is a great way to let out our emotions and still feel in control of them. A way to be true to one’s self – sensitivity is a valuable asset that we don’t want to lose. Since we are more sensitive as people, we have a unique way of thinking, processing, and penning stories.

Appreciating our talent

It’s easy to get caught up in the competition and comparison that are inherent in this field. But, we must take out the time to recognise and appreciate our talent and efforts. All we need to do is, just take a look back, be grateful for where we are and how far we have come, and smile at what we have managed to accomplish.

As Stephen Hawking once said, “Quiet people have the loudest minds.” So, why not put it to great use, especially as a writer? We bring some unique qualities to life that make us special in so many ways. So, it’s about time we embrace our introverted nature. In the end, all I can say is, just give yourself a chance!