Flexible Working and the Introvert

Flexible Working and the Introvert

In 1888 a sculpture titled "The Thinker" was first exhibited; later it was replicated with statues around the world and became a universal image representing the mental and physical effort behind creativity and innovation. The sculptor, Auguste Rodin, said "What makes my Thinker think is that he thinks not only with his brain, with his knitted brow, his distended nostrils and compressed lips, but with every muscle of his arms, back, and legs, with his clenched fist and gripping toes."

Over time the thinkers in society have become synonymous with the term introverts, as people who seek times of solitude in order to solve problems, to find their energy, to be creative and to just be. As the world shifted towards more extrovert environments and practices many such people found it increasingly challenging to harness their skills to their full potential with open plan offices, group think exercises and surrounded and trapped by the persistent buzz of the office environment.

In recent years, however, there has been a growing recognition of the benefits of flexible working arrangements. A few companies are now offering employees the opportunity to work from home, choose their own hours, and work in a way that suits them. For introverts, this shift towards flexibility has been particularly beneficial. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of flexible working for introverts.

Firstly, it's important to understand what we mean by introversion. This is a huge and complex topic which we can't do full justice to in this short blog. While introverts are often seen as shy or antisocial, this is not necessarily the case. Instead, introverts tend to prefer quieter, more low-key environments, and can find social situations draining. They often need time alone to recharge their batteries and process their thoughts and feelings.

Flexible working arrangements can be particularly beneficial for introverts because they allow them to work in an environment that suits them. This might mean working from home, where there are fewer distractions and interruptions. It could also mean choosing flexible hours, so that they can work during the times of day when they are most productive and focused, for example non-linear days.

Another benefit flexible working has brought for introverts is that it allows them to avoid the stress of commuting and working in a noisy, busy office. Introverts can find the open-plan office environment particularly challenging, as it can be difficult to concentrate when there is a lot of noise and activity going on around them. Flexible working arrangements can help introverts to create a more peaceful, focused working environment that is tailored to their needs.

Flexible working can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. Many introverts find that they feel more comfortable and relaxed when they are working in a familiar environment, such as their own home. They may also find it easier to manage their workload, reduce interruptions and costly context switching, and avoid burnout when they are able to work in a way that sallows them to flourish.

Finally, flexible working can also help introverts to achieve a better work-life balance. By choosing their own hours and working from home, introverts can ensure that they have time to pursue their hobbies, spend time with their families, and enjoy their downtime. This can be particularly important for introverts, who often need time alone to recharge and reflect.

Flexible working arrangements can be hugely beneficial for introverts. By creating a more peaceful, focused working environment, reducing stress and anxiety, and allowing introverts to achieve a better work-life balance, flexible working can help introverts to thrive both professionally and personally.

Let's not forget though that it's not just the introvert individual that flexible working helps. By enabling people working conditions which maximise their abilities - be that outputs, creativity or problem solving - the organisation benefits too. Perhaps it's time flexible working became a key part of how to nurture employees to achieve their full potential and becomes embedded in HR policies.

As more and more companies recognize the benefits of flexible working, hopefully introverts will be empowered to thrive and organisations will learn to leverage the full power of the introvert.