453 Quotes by Susan Cain

Although we often hang back in group situations, evidence proves that introverts make strong leaders – often delivering better outcomes than extroverted leaders do. Yes, you read that right – not just decent outcomes, but better ones.

Love is essential; gregariousness is optional. Cherish your nearest and dearest. Work with colleagues you like and respect. Scan new acquaintances for those who might fall into the former categories or whose company you enjoy for its own sake. And don’t worry about socializing with everyone else. Relationships make everyone happier, introverts included, but think quality over quantity.

Naked lions are just as dangerous as elegantly dressed ones.

The “Bus to Abilene” anecdote reveals our tendency to follow those who initiate action – any action. We are similarly inclined to empower dynamic speakers.

If you don’t love Jesus out loud, then it must not be real love. It’s not enough to forge your own spiritual connection to the Divine. It must be displayed publicly.

In our house, reading was the primary group activity. On Saturday afternoons we curled up with our books in the den. It was the best of both worlds: you had the animal warmth of your family right next to you, but you also got to roam around the adventure-land inside your own head.

Aron has noted that sensitive people tend to speak softly because that’s how they prefer others to communicate with them.

The wind howls, but the mountain remains still.

The “evidence from science suggests that business people must be insane to use brainstorming groups,” writes the organizational psychologist Adrian Furnham. “If you have talented and motivated people, they should be encouraged to work alone when creativity or efficiency is the highest priority.