So you're an introverted Scrum Master having to work with tons of people? This will help you with your struggles.

It’s been over two months since I moved to Indonesia. Yet, I did not come here solely for the sun, the beautiful nature or welcoming Balinese culture. I came here for the diversity of Indonesia as a whole. This country spread out on, almost, 18 000 islands is fascinating to me with so many customs and sub-cultures.

I came here to do reportage work.

For that matter I visited the village of Trunyan. It is said to exist well before hinduism and buddhism made it’s mark. It can be visually strong material for some. Viewer discretion is advised. If you want to get to know it you can see it here. There are also lighter materials about the kite culture and the surfing scene - both from Bali, Indonesia. The spot for the latter I revisited today with fond memories (apart of the ‘hot as hell’ aspect of the beach).

Now back, to the regular programming.

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You don’t have to be a Scrum Master to read this. This is universal to people with introvert traits.

1/ Being as charismatic as those extraverts

Charisma looks different for each person. It's about putting yourself out there and not being ashamed of who you are living your values. Charisma will come. It might not look like Tonny Robbins, but it will still enchant people.

2/ So many interactions depleting the battery 

Those need to be processed. Take your time and distribute your energy wisely. You will still need your time outside work. If running a two-day workshop, clear your calendar on the next day of meetings to recharge. 

3/ Know your limitations and superpowers

Accept you might need more time to process information, and don't let yourself be rushed. If the circumstances require you to respond fast - you can train that in yourself to a certain extent. 

Note what you're good at, observe how you react to stress and interactions as well as regenerate. Learn what you need in these situations. 

Create a blueprint for yourself that will help you navigate and work on the strengths and weaknesses of your nervous system. 

Get to know the below to see what you might be missing: 

🗝️"Quiet" by Susan Cain

🗝️ Learn about neuroscience from Andrew D. Huberman

🗝️ "Laws of Human Nature" by Robert Greene 

🗝️ "Radical Acceptance" by Tara Brach

4/ Recharge at your own pace

You do not need to recharge in same fashion as others do.

Respect your needs and learn how to recharge at work.

Don't leave it for your free time because you will have none left for things you love. Read more 👉🏼 https://medium.com/agile-change/how-to-regenerate-at-work-not-after-5be94f79d5f1

☝🏼Disclaimer: Introverts are people who are more directed inwards than outwards. That said, we are all a mix of different personality types. Many introverts have extravert traits. 

It's more important to understand yourself than to put on a label. Labels are limiting.

Parts of our characters might be in the shadow or be neglected due to trauma, living by somebody else's beliefs etc. In such cases, coaching or therapy might be the way to go.

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Kudos go to Agata Kabat for the inspiration to write on this topic.