Why it DOES pay to be shy

[JimOfferman]

Originally Posted by Rose of Cairo

I use the definition that introverted people gain energy when alone and spend it when with other people, while extroverted people gain energy when with other people and spend it when alone.

I like that defintion because this way there is a clear distinction between being introverted, insecure, or reserved. I would say you're reserved, at least in the beginning.

By that definition, I am most certainly more extroverted than introverted. And I am also reserved. I think the reason is that I always get plenty of attention, so I am free in choosing who to engage.

[Angela]

Originally Posted by JimOfferman

By that definition, I am most certainly more extroverted than introverted. And I am also reserved. I think the reason is that I always get plenty of attention, so I am free in choosing who to engage.

Why do you describe yourself as shy, then? Are you using shy as a synonym for reserved?

[JimOfferman]

Originally Posted by Angela

Why do you describe yourself as shy, then? Are you using shy as a synonym for reserved?

Yeah, I guess.

I tend to hang back a little, take my time to observe the situation before I actively engage in a company. Someone somewhere labelled me as being shy for behaving in that way and, at the time at least, that label made sense to me. Shyness has never had any negative connotations for me, because the fears that some people in this (and RichGrad's) thread attribute to shyness do not exist in my life.

[Angela]

The word 'shy' to me connotates being stopped, inhibited, or fearful.

[JimOfferman]

Originally Posted by Angela

The word 'shy' to me connotates being stopped, inhibited, or fearful.

I sometimes think it'd be nice if words would actually meant the same to everyone

[Spiritual]

Shyness: An awkwardness or lack of self-confidence in the presence of others: backwardness, bashfulness, coyness, retiringness, timidity, timidness. See restraint/unrestraint.

As Tiny Tim said: God bless us all, everyone!