23 famous introverts. Would you have guessed ?

When we think about success, about being famous and appreciated by many, it is easy to connect this with “putting yourself out there”.
Celebrity is often associated with extraversion.

We cannot think of movie stars, powerful business people, even well-known scientists or artists without thinking of the fact they are “in the public eye”.
There are some very common misunderstandings about introverted people.

Often, they are referred to as:
● Shy
● Awkward / antisocial
● Isolated / loners
In reality, you can say those things about many people, not all of them introverts.

It is true that introverts are more comfortable spending time alone and they work better alone.

They prefer smaller groups and meaningful relationships instead of big social circles. But does this mean they can not reach success and celebrity?

The power of introverts

For some reason, introversion is described more with the disadvantages. Let’s see what are the superpowers of being an introvert.
1. Focus. Most people who have been blessed with this trait have shown great focus on the task at hand.

They are creating a work environment that allows them to do things without
distraction of any kind.
2. Inner world. The introverts are more self-conscious, they pay a lot of attention to their inner world and their emotions and this is supporting their growth.
3. Decisive. They tend to take decisions quickly (focus and self-reflection help as well) and to handle situations responsibly.
Check also the article about the fear of public speaking because you will find more interesting things about the advantages of being an introvert.

If you think that celebrity comes with public appearances, you are most probably right.

But if you are an introvert and only the thought of it creates anxiety, read the above mentioned article, for a bit of motivation.

Famous introverts

Business success is about taking good decisions and knowing how to solve problems.
Celebrity in creative domains might be about natural talent, great mentors and a fantastic promotional team around you.

We have done a bit of research about famous introverts, and some of the findings have surprised us as well. Here are some of them.

1. Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep’s success as an actress has been recognised with multiple awards and nominations for her work on screen and stage.

She is loved by billions and it is almost impossible to hear somebody ask “who is Meryl Streep?”.
She confesses that, being an introvert, building the confidence to follow her dreams was the most important factor.

She talks, in many interviews, about how her mother’s support and encouragement helped her pursue everything she wanted.
The confidence allowed her to approach her mentors, like Jane Fonda, and get their support and great advice.
2. Tom Hanks
One of the most respected and popular Hollywood actors, Tom Hanks is another example that being
an introvert does not stay in the way of celebrity.
This doesn’t mean it is easy. Tom Hanks says: “If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. It’s the hard that makes it great.”
If you still think that those are exceptions and not many introverts made it in Hollywood, here are some more examples:
● Julia Roberts
● Gwyneth Paltrow
● Audrey Hepburn
● Harrison Ford
● Ema Watson
● Meg Ryan

● Glenn Close

Since we are talking about showbiz, we can mention some famous singers as well. Christina Aguilera, Elton John and Lady Gaga, are just a few examples.
3. Bill Gates
American business magnate, software developer, investor and philanthropist. His first success was co-founding Microsoft, but he did not stop at that.

He is one of the wealthiest people in the world.
Mark Zuckerberg and Warren Buffet are also very famous, very rich, and … introverted.
People like Bill Gates, Warren Buffet or Mark Zuckerberg are the living proof that introverts can make great leaders. And that they can be successful in business.
4. Elon Musk
So many eyes are on Elon Musk and his great inventions. His passion for electric cars, space and so many other innovative fields have made him famous and rich. Musk is the wealthiest person in the world, and… guess what? An introvert.
5. J.K Rowling
If the name does not ring a bell, maybe Harry Potter does. The author of the Harry Potter book series, J. K. Rowling is a self-proclaimed introvert.
She confessed that she was shy and quiet growing up, but writing always brought her comfort.

Her talent and creativity helped her create all this amazing world, described in Harry Potter.

There are so many famous people that you probably love or appreciate, and you wouldn’t tell that they share the trait of being an introvert.
Just some more examples:
● Barack Obama
● Hilary Clinton
● Albert Einstein
● Steven Spielberg
● Glenn Close
● Nelson Mandela
Do you still think that being an introvert stays in your way?

There are lots of misconceptions that surround introverts. Many people assume that because they are quiet, they don’t have much to say – but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Or that they cannot lead, because they are not good with working or effectively communicating with teams.

We are determined to destroy all those limiting beliefs and to show you just how amazing introverts can be.

And if you are an introvert, stay close, or even join our community, for more resources that can help us all grow. We will support each other, inspire each other and reach our true potential, despite all the challenges we might meet.