Being an introvert is not, and I repeat not, the same as being socially awkward or having social anxiety. It stands by and of itself. Introvert (me) could quite happily direct drivers on and off the weighbridge, chat to them, ask them how their wife/baby/dog/hamster/goldfish was, walk them down to where they needed to load or tip. If someone's dog bounces up to me, tail wagging, I have no problem having a short conversation with the owner. However, I prefer my own company, plus husband and cats, of course. Introversion can be associated with other issues, but an introvert can be just that. An introvert.

I expect some downvotes, but I'm gonna say it anyway. Sam seems like kind of a d*ck in some of these. I understand that he doesn't like talking to people, but he's made it his entire personality. For example, maybe the hairdresser is bored. She's just trying to pass the time, he could make a little effort to pass the time with her. I say this as someone who is hopeless at small talk.

i like it, Sam says what i am to polite to say sometimes :) thank you for sharing your work

I feel this a bit more than some other comments but not because I am socially awkward. I have some trauma from my past so it is often very hard to open up to new people. I can do the typical hi, how are ya but that is as far as the conversation will usually go with me. It is hard for me to jump into conversations especially when others continuously go on and on. So if you are an extrovert help your friend out and give them an opening to actually speak if you value their input. It really helps us out if the conversation isn't one continual run on sentence. XD

I agree with Serena and Rosie; I am a lifelong Introvert, I like quiet and alone time. I am NOT, however, socially awkward, anxious or isolated. I'm liked by friends, respected in my industry, make presentations to large groups and am able to converse on a range of topics. I find large gatherings to be overly noisy, forced and tedious. I dislike small talk and superficial gratuitous chatter. My "batteries" do drain quickly in some situations and require time to re-charge. I don't feel that I need or benefit from encouragement to "get out more". Thanks Ross, keep being you!