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Not All Introverts Are Shy -- Update the Dictionary Definition

Not All Introverts Are Shy -- Update the Dictionary Definition

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Started by Janice Chaka 8 years, 7 months ago

Stop the Misinformation

"Someone who is shy, quiet, and unable to make friends easily" is a commonly misconceived idea of an introvert and is also the Cambridge Dictionary definition of one. Quite the opposite is true. The objective definition of an introvert is someone who gets their energy from being alone, not necessarily someone who is shy.

We are calling for a change. The awareness of the true definition of an introvert is spreading, but ending the misinformation and negative connotation with being an introvert begins with changing the Cambridge Dictionary definition.

What You NEED To Do

  • SIGN THE PETITION to formally recognize your acknowledgement of the need to change the Cambridge Dictionary definition of an introvert to focus on where the energy comes from, rather than outdated, subjective stereotypes.
  • SPREAD THE WORD to your friends and family to grow awareness of the need for change and encourage others to take action.
  • BE PROACTIVE by being mindful of your own use of the word “introvert” and perception of those who consider themselves to be introverted.

The Change You Will Inspire

The negative connotation with being introverted has a greater impact than simply assuming someone is shy or has bad social skills because they are an introvert. This connotation has physiological effect on everybody, shifting the perception of introverts and potentially affecting their lives and careers.

By changing the Cambridge Dictionary definition of an introvert, those who consider themselves to be introverted will face less pressure and the mental health challenges of dealing with the identity created for them by this misinformation. Let’s do our part and sign the petition.


Follow me for more information on twitter @careerintrovert or join us on Facebook at The Career Introvert.


If you want to do more please feel free to use the following hashtag #notmydictionary and tweet to @CambridgeWords.


After you sign you will be directed to a page where you can donate to ipetitions please do not think that you have to donate.

Updates

June 5, 2018

I am truly stunned by the momentum this has gained lately. This movement belongs to all of you who refuse to accept outdated labels and keep pushing for the truth.

12 Comments

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Anonymous
7 years ago Featured

Needing solitude after a social event doesn't mean introverts can't make friends. It just means we can't be around them excessively without feeling drained. Introverts are very good listeners and usually attract people that like to talk and many that need to talk. Personally, I've never known a friendless introvert.

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Julia
8 years ago Featured

I agree that we need a change in major dictionaries. We can't even write to someone "I'm an introvert" and be sure that he gets what it is, we still have to explain ourselves

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Alison
8 years ago Featured

Agree with this completely. I am actually a shy extrovert. And I am not awkward either. Introvert is more about your needs and energy. My father is an introvert who spent most of his life in an art studio. He prefers to be alone, but when he emerges he’ll be the life of the party, until he is ready to go home.

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Cydav
7 years ago

I am an introvert. I am not shy.

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Meredith Lewis
7 years ago

Introversion and extroversion are ways of managing energy, not indicators of levels of shyness or social skills.

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Natalie
7 years ago

100% agree! The dictionary definition is inaccurate and needs scrapping!

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Asriel Dreemurr
7 years ago

Introverts merely find being alone more fulfilling than partying. We are not all shy.

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Jodie Graham
8 years ago

Couldn’t agree more. I am not at shy but an most definitely an introvert. Oprah Winfrey is an introvert, hardly a shy individual.

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