5 Things Only Introverts Have

If you're an introvert like me, it may seem like those who thrive on action and exciting environments have the upper hand - they seem to lead with ease, they take risks, they charm strangers. Introversion, along with its cousins sensitivity, seriousness, and shyness - is now a second-class personality trait, somewhere between a disappointment and a pathology. Introversion comes with some major perks in relationships, at work and even when it comes to health - keep reading to find out how it benefits you.

# Learning Power

If you find comfort in solitude, you may find that you pick up a new skill faster than your extroverted friends. Research has found that college students who study alone learn more over time than those who work in groups, Cain writes in Quiet. And of course, elite athletes, musicians and artists spend plenty of time alone, practicing and perfecting their craft.

# Confidence Level

It's not that introverts don't like talking…they're just not fans of small talk. “Introverts do not hate small talk because we dislike people. We hate small talk because we hate the barrier it creates between people." Introverts prefer meaningful conversation, and they also tend to be more empathetic than extroverts - an endearing combination that encourages real connections over superficial ones.

# Delaying Gratification.

Whether you’re saying no to dessert or powering through a project before allowing yourself a Netflix binge, you’re likely better at it than the average extrovert. Studies show that introverts are better at delaying gratification, a skill that’s associated with everything from higher income to lower body mass index.

# Great Leaders.

The loudest person in the room isn’t necessarily the most talented…and introverts know that. In fact, that’s what makes them such good leaders. Management researchers at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania found that, while extroverts command attention, introverts are less likely to spend time or energy asserting their authority and more likely to spend time listening instead of talking. And while extroverts are better at leading employees who aren’t proactive, introverts are great at leading employees who are.

# Masters of Disguise.

Best of all? Introverts can masquerade as extroverts when necessary, if you believe the Free Trait Theory (the idea that while we’re born with certain personality traits, we can act out of character in the service of “core personal projects”). We can take risks at work when we need to. We can put together a surprise party for our outgoing best friend. We can head up a committee for a cause that’s important to us. And we get all the benefits of introversion every step of the way.