Memes are now an essential component of the online world and are known to circulate rapidly across various social media platforms. However, what exactly is it about memes that makes them so catchy and easily shareable? Bradley E. Wiggins, Ph.D., an Associate Professor and Department Head of Media Communications at Webster Vienna Private University and author of the book “The Discursive Power of Memes in Digital Culture”, has previously told Bored Panda that memes are usually short and easy-to-share content that incorporate humor, making them highly relatable to the subject matter depicted in the meme. “Memes that reflect or reject certain ideological aspects become part of the larger online experience and can serve to reinforce one’s preconceived notions about a particular issue.”

As is evident from the memes, being an introvert can be challenging at times, not only while navigating social interactions at work or school, but also online. Social media can be overwhelming for introverted individuals who prefer solitude because such platforms are often designed to encourage constant engagement. Introverts can also find social interaction intimidating due to their concerns about their self-image. According to Joanna Rawbone, MSc, a training consultant and founder of ‘Flourishing Introverts’, introverts who have worked on themselves to the point of being less worried about what others think of them are more able to lead themselves and others successfully. “We’re not for everyone, and everyone is not for us. Overthinkers take note and I should know, I used to be one!”

If you identify as an introvert, it's important to embrace your personality and not feel pressured to change to fit societal norms. However, there are strategies that can help you build confidence and allow you to ‘flourish’. Joanna Rawbone’s favorite definition of flourishing comes from Dr. Lynn Soots: “Flourishing is the product of the pursuit and engagement of an authentic life that brings inner joy and happiness through meeting goals, being connected with life passions, and relishing in accomplishments through the peaks and valleys of life.”

“Flourishing is a journey, not a destination, a choice we make moment by moment, so being able to measure and appreciate progress is essential. And because life is filled with ups and downs, we provide tools that enable resilience, build authentic confidence and develop a powerful presence. My years of enabling my own flourishing and helping my introverted clients to flourish have resulted in a 3-phase approach that starts with owning your introversion and your inherent strengths. Too many introverts, worn down by years or decades of being told to be different, have had them think that introversion is a hindrance in life. It doesn’t have to be this way,” Joanna Rawbone shared.

Rawbone’s next facilitated program starts this month, and you can register your interest here.