Most people who meet me have trouble believing I'm an introvert.
They see me speaking at online events, appearing on podcasts and vodcasts, active on social media and generally very much out there.
And in 1:1 and small group conversations, especially the deep ones about things I care about, I shine.
But I'm the same person who had to steel herself before walking into a room full of strangers. Who was likely to park herself in a corner and quietly observe. Who would think twice before approaching people in the room. Who would rather be at home with my book.
That person remains a big part of me. My friends and I joke that I can always find a reason to stay home.
But sometimes you have to be out there, because you have things to say that the world needs to hear. Especially if you're part of a group that the world tends to ignore.
So I've learned how to prepare myself to show up, and how to take care of myself so I recover quickly after an event. How to make an impact while protecting myself from exhaustion. How to be an introvert who speaks out.
And importantly, how to build in recovery time so I can continue to show up.
What about you?
Sharon Hurley Hall is an anti-racism educator, author of I’m Tired of Racism, and founder of the SHHARE anti-racism community and of Sharon’s Anti-Racism Newsletter, which provides tools and lived experiences to fuel systemic change. A seasoned professional writer and journalist, she leverages over 30 years of experience to mentor introverted leaders, and is co-founder and co-host of the Introvert Sisters Podcast. Her recent work focuses on helping Black and Global Majority women achieve high-impact visibility and professional influence without the exhaustion of performing extroversion.
© Sharon Hurley Hall, 2026. All Rights Reserved. This newsletter is published on beehiiv (affiliate link).