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Maybe you recognize this: you have great ideas and thoughts, but as soon as you want to speak them out loud, the words don’t seem to come. Writing, on the other hand, goes much more smoothly for introverts. But why is that?
Did you know that most people actually think in images rather than words? This isn't just an introvert thing. A Harvard study shows that our brains prefer visual thinking over verbal thinking. This is because language is a relatively new development in our evolution. Our brains are still catching up when it comes to using language. Everyone, even the most extroverted people, can sometimes struggle to find the right words.
For introverts, this “word problem” often feels even stronger. You may have a lot to say, but it doesn’t always come out the way you want. This can cause others to see you as quiet or shy, while in reality, you just need time to articulate your thoughts. In a world that values fast talkers, this can be quite challenging.
Long-Term Memory
Part of the explanation lies in how our memory works. Introverts rely more on their long-term memory. Information in long-term memory is stored for a long time but is not always readily accessible. This makes it harder to speak quickly because you need the right “keys” to retrieve this information.
Imagine trying to recall your first date with your partner. That memory might only come back when you smell a certain scent that reminds you of that evening. This is an example of how associations work. Even though you have a lot of detailed information stored, it’s not always easy to quickly recall it during a conversation.
Anxiety
Anxiety also sometimes plays a role. Introverts can feel uncomfortable in social situations, making speaking even harder. Anxiety can cause your thoughts to block and make it more difficult to concentrate and remember what you want to say.
Fortunately, writing is much easier for many introverts. Writing and speaking use different parts of the brain. When writing, you have the time to think and carefully choose your words, which often aligns better with how introverts process information.
If you have trouble finding words during a conversation, try to stay calm. Give yourself time by saying that you need a moment to think. This can help you find the right words. And if it really doesn’t work, you can always offer to come back to the topic later via a message or email.
