I’m an Introvert Disruptor. So what?
I often seek theories and concepts that usher me toward self-discovery. Recently, I completed a Human Design assessment, a system that blends astrology, the I Ching, Kabbalah, and the chakra system to map out our unique energetic blueprint. The results weren’t groundbreaking because I always knew I had an element of introversion in me. So, yes, I was labeled as an "Introvert Disruptor."
What is interesting is that my mind initially went to the word "disruption," which can also imply disorderliness. That didn’t sit well with me, so I decided to go deeper and understand what that term actually means within the system of Human Design.
I started with the first part of the label, “Introvert.”
In her book "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking," Susan Cain argues that introversion is a key ingredient in the creative process. She writes, "Solitude is a catalyst for innovation. Quiet mind, profound ideas.” That sounds amazing, but is it even true for me? I had to do some deep self-reflection and came to realize I typically navigate life with a reflective, inward focus—verbatim what an introvert does. I also find that I gravitate towards other introverts when it comes to poetry, music, and literature. For example, Rainer Maria Rilke, whose poetry is laden with profound emotional depth, rich imagery, and philosophical introspection. His work often explores themes of existentialism, spirituality, and the human condition. Rilke's poems are known for their lyrical beauty, intricate metaphors, and the way they delve into the inner lives of individuals, often reflecting on love, death, and the divine. His language is both evocative and precise, creating a powerful resonance through a blend of personal reflection and universal themes. Rilke's most famous works, "Duino Elegies" and "Sonnets to Orpheus," highlight his ability to capture the sublime and the transient, making his poetry timeless and deeply moving.
His poetic style can be supported by the work of psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who coined the term "flow" to describe the state of deep focus and immersion in an activity. In his seminal book "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience," Csikszentmihalyi emphasizes that solitude often facilitates the flow state, allowing individuals to delve deeply into their work without the distractions of external interactions.
The more I researched, the more I realized that introverts often find their most profound inspiration in the sanctuary of their minds. Unlike extroverts, who draw energy from external stimuli and social interactions, introverts recharge in solitude.
So then, what about the “Disruptor” piece? Where does that fit in? In his book "The Gene Keys: Unlocking the Higher Purpose Hidden in Your DNA," Richard Rudd says, "Introvert Disruptors leverage their deep, reflective nature to create significant shifts. They often operate behind the scenes, using their keen insights to challenge and transform the status quo.” So it seems the "Disruptor" archetype signifies an individual who instigates change through innovative and unconventional means. For an "Introvert Disruptor," this means using their introspective nature and deep understanding of underlying patterns to create meaningful transformations. This does not mean we are loud and boisterous.
On the contrary, according to Chetan Parkyn, “Introvert Disruptors use their introspective energy to instigate change through thoughtful, strategic actions.” Rather than seeking the spotlight, they influence through thoughtful analysis, strategic interventions, and the quiet power of their insights. Their disruptions are often subtle but profound, leveraging their inner strength and reflective capacities to reshape environments, ideologies, and systems in ways that promote growth and authenticity. This unique blend of introversion and disruptive energy makes them powerful agents of change who operate from a place of depth and contemplation.
A study published in the "Journal of Research in Personality" by Gregory Feist found that creative individuals often exhibit traits associated with introversion, such as independence, originality, and a preference for solitary activities. Feist’s research suggests that the introspective nature of introverts allows them to explore ideas more thoroughly and from unique perspectives. This finding is supported by Cal Newport, in his book "Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World," in which he advocates for "deep work" practices that involve extended periods of uninterrupted focus. Newport’s principles, which resonate with introverted tendencies, highlight the importance of carving out time for solitary concentration to achieve high levels of productivity and creativity.
So, the next time you find yourself in need of inspiration, consider embracing solitude. Whether your Human Design label is introvert or extrovert, remember that the quiet spaces within your mind hold a wellspring of creative potential waiting to be tapped.
I suppose the term “Disruptor” isn’t as bad as it seems after all. Growing up in a suppressive environment — where silence was the safest route to survival — I realize now the lengths I took to challenge norms and edge toward a more authentic existence. One way I did that was by choosing to delve into the world of communication and visual journalism to pursue a career in multimodal storytelling. With every new experience, I hope I continue to find ways to explore those unique crevices of creativity the universe unfolds in my path, and I encourage you to do the same.
References:
Cain, Susan. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. Crown Publishing Group, 2012.
Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Harper & Row, 1990.
Feist, Gregory J. “A Meta-Analysis of Personality in Scientific and Artistic Creativity.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, vol. 70, no. 5, 1996, pp. 1147-1160.
Newport, Cal. Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World. Grand Central Publishing, 2016.
Parkyn, Chetan. “Human Design: Discover the Person You Were Born to Be”. New World Library, 2010.
Rudd, Richard. “The Gene Keys: Unlocking the Higher Purpose Hidden in Your DNA”. Watkins Publishing, 2013.