 Why do introverts often find themselves misunderstood and underestimated? When I say introvert, what do you picture? Is it someone shy or closed off or is it someone confident and expressive? Millionaire Bill Gates, for instance, is introverted but is unfazed by others' opinions and in no way shy. Even extroverts with larger than life personalities like millionaire inventor Steve Jobs can be prone to shyness. Introversion is often associated with shyness and social anxieties but not all introverts are alike. Extroverts and introverts alike can suffer from occasional shyness and it is crucial to recognize the differences rather than assume introverts are all the same. American author and lecturer, Susan Kane, explains that shyness and introversion are not the same. Shyness is the fear of negative judgment and introversion is a preference for quiet, minimally stimulating environments. Ultimately, it's essential to recognize that introversion is not a character flaw or weakness. It's a different way of perceiving, processing and engaging with the world.