I am an introvert. Some people can question whether they are or not. I don't. I'm certified in Myers-Briggs, so I know the language well. I've studied the concept, but it didn't require much study or an assessment for me. I know I'm in the club.

As a pastor, it meant I was more tired when I went home on Sunday. It means I avoid certain crowds unless I have a clear purpose for being there. It means I usually run and exercise alone and I'm okay with that. It means I'm probably harder to get to know than some people. I get all that. I own it. It's me.

I realize I have to work harder as a leader to allow my team to know me or what I'm thinking. I can't allow introversion to be an excuse for poor leadership.

I've written before about the struggles of introversion in ministry before and how I adapted with it as a pastor. What surprises me, however, is how misunderstood introverts are sometimes. There are a lot of false assumptions made when someone is introverted; maybe especially an introverted leader. (And, I know lots of pastors—even of very large churches—who are introverted.)

7 False Assumptions People Have Made of Me as an Introvert

Some think I'm shy.

That may be your word, but it's not mine. I prefer "purposeful." Others may call it something else. I talk when there's a purpose, and I'm not afraid to do so. Three-year-olds are shy when they hide behind their daddy. That's not me.

Some have thought I must need more courage.

"Why I oughtta!" (You'll get that only if you are a Moe Howard – Three Stooges fan.) Seriously, I "ain't chicken". Again, when I choose to speak, I'll speak. Choosing not to isn't a fear. It's just being comfortable.

It's been thought that I must not have anything to say.

Actually I have lots to say. Have you noticed I blog frequently? I even wrote a book. Have you noticed how often I update Twitter and Facebook? I have bunches to say. Sometimes I do, and sometimes I don't express it, but many times how I choose to communicate will be different than how others choose to communicate.

In some settings, when I'm quieter than others, it's been assumed I'm not as intelligent as others in the room.

And, that's probably true in a lot of ways, depending on the subject. I try to surround myself with people smarter than I am. And I listen well. Actually, I have a few degrees hanging on my wall. But in some ways, I think I may be smarter than the one who never quits talking. You know the one. I am less likely to say the thing I wish I hadn't said, because I didn't think before I talked. It happens, but not as often as it might for some.

Sadly, some have thought I am arrogant or don't like people.

That is definitely not true. Honestly, I love everyone. I have a biblical commitment and a personal goal to do so. Whether or not I talk to you will not be a good determination of whether or not I like you. It might even mean I respect you enough to listen more than speak. Maybe.

Some have thought I need someone to talk for me.

Actually, I'd rather you not. Now that being said, I sometimes let my wife talk for me. She's good at it too. But if I have an opinion I think needs sharing, I'll speak for myself. Or regret later than I didn't. But, either way, please don't try to be my voice.

And, some have even told me I need to change, mature, grow as a person or leader.

Yes, I heard that said a number of times when I was a pastor. But, let me assure you, there's nothing wrong with me. Actually, there's a lot wrong with me, but introversion isn't one of the things. I'm just quieter than some leaders you may know—or your immediate perception of a leader.

Those are some of the false assumptions that have been made of this introvert.

Introverts, what have people misunderstood about you?

Ron Edmondson is the CEO of Leadership Network. Previously, he was a pastor, revitalizing two churches and planting two churches. He loves assisting pastors and those in ministry think through leadership, strategy and life.

This article originally appeared at ronedmondson.com.

Get Spirit-filled content delivered right to your inbox! Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

Dr. Mark Rutland's

National Institute of Christian Leadership (NICL)

The NICL is one of the top leadership training programs in the U.S. taught by Dr. Mark Rutland. If you're the type of leader that likes to have total control over every aspect of your ministry and your future success, the NICL is right for you!

FREE NICL MINI-COURSE - Enroll for 3-hours of training from Dr. Rutland's full leadership course. Experience the NICL and decide if this training is right for you and your team.

The NICL Online is an option for any leader with time or schedule constraints. It's also for leaders who want to expedite their training to receive advanced standing for Master Level credit hours. Work through Dr. Rutland's full training from the comfort of your home or ministry at your pace. Learn more about NICL Online. Learn more about NICL Online.