b'ARTICLEUnderstanding Introversion 3) Acetylcholine is a chemical Introversion isnt shyness. neurotransmitter linked to calm focus, Lets start here.deep thinking and sustained attention.Shyness is a fear of social situations andIntroverts are thought to have more judgement from others, with absolutelyacetylcholine receptors in the brain, everyone susceptible to moments ofmaking them more sensitive to its shyness. Introversion, on the other hand,effects. While this theory is widely discussed, the evidence is limited and is a preference for processing-time.articles tend to be anecdotal. 50%Many introverts are articulate, confidentIn short, its important to acknowledgeof UK Brits and can transmit their thoughts andthat there are neurological differences atidentify as opinions clearly and with influence.play. Differences that bring both strengthsintroverted 1The veterinary profession attracts bothand challenges. True authenticity emerges introverts and extroverts, with somewhen we understand both.studies hinting at a sway towards aHidden Strengths: higher number of introverts. But atActive Listening the very least, the YouGov FriendshipIntroverts tend to be exceptional Study (2021) found that 50% of UK Britslisteners, picking up on nuances and identify as introverted 1 , suggesting thatsubtleties that others may miss. Active at least half the veterinary workforcelistening is critical in veterinary care has a preference for recharging theirand team dynamics, making this a energy inwardly. They thrive on internalhighly effective leadership skill, both reflection and they can becomein client communication and team overwhelmed with external stimulation. conflict resolution. A quiet colleague will What we tend to see with familiarnotice the small change in a patients leadership models is a favour towardsdemeanour, they will pick up on the louder voices. This can leave a quieterunspoken worry from a client or they team memberand potential futuremay recognise when a member of the leaderstruggling to see themself inteam is struggling.a leadership role, despite having anThoughtful Decision-Makingaptitude for measured decision making,Introverts dont rush to speak, they deep personal connection (great forare quiet because theyre thinking, collaboration) and relish in encouragingplanning, contemplating, weighing-up. others to do their best. Decisions are calculated and evidence High energy, frenetic environmentsbased, which can admittedly slow down can leave introverts feeling depleted,the processbut their thorough and and there are not many other workingmeasured approach to problem solving environments as stimulating or as a busyis a big part of that thoughtful decision as a veterinary hospital!making and an asset. In contrast, a more impulsive extravert may process their Neuroscience plays a big part too thoughts out loud and arrive at decisions With both personality traits havingmore spontaneously. different cognitive strengths, itLeading with Humilityfascinated me to discover these threeThey may not be the most outspoken facts: and dont crave the spotlight, but what 1) Introverts have a thicker prefrontalthat does mean is that quieter leaders cortex the area of the brain associatedare more approachable. with deep thinking and problem solving. 2 Over the years I spent in practice, I often 2) Extraverts brains respond differentlyfound myself comforting a colleague to dopamine the feel-good chemicalduring a vulnerable moment. thats linked to pleasure and excitement. So, when something big or exciting isSometimes quiet leadership is as about to happen, their brain lights upsimple as reading the signs and asking in anticipation, energising them andthe right question like: Whats on rewarding them for it. Introverts are lessyour mind today?reactive to dopamine. 3www.inspiredvet.co.uk11'