Activism needs introverts | Sarah Corbett

For the introverts among us, traditional forms activism like marches, protests and door-to-door canvassing can be intimidating and stressful. Take it from Sarah Corbett, a former professional campaigner and self-proclaimed introvert. She introduces us to "craftivism," a quieter form of activism that uses handicrafts as a way to get people to slow down and think deeply about the issues they're facing, all while engaging the public more gently. Who says an embroidered handkerchief can't change the world?

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[DecodeChannel]

If you are an introvert, you are born with a temperament that craves to be alone, delights in meaningful connections, thinks before speaking and observes before approaching. If you are an introvert, you thrive in the inner sanctuary of the mind, heart and spirit, but shrink in the external world of noise, drama and chaos. As an introvert, you are sensitive, perceptive, gentle and reflective. You prefer to operate behind the scenes, preserve your precious energy and influence the world in a quiet, but powerful way.

[MadCatAttack]

I'd like to take a moment to thank the speaker for this talk. As a fellow introvert, I hear and empathize with every quiver in her voice. I can only imagine the courage it took to stand before a large live audience and speak as she did. Thank you for being an inspiration.

[marce]

I would like to remind people:
Introversion≠shyness
Please people, being an introvert means you get tired by being around people, but that does not mean that you have to be shy.
That's just each person

[JeromeTEvans_]

The key point for me is "Play to Your Strengths". If you are a better advocate when you're alone or have time to think or when you're just encouraging others - go for it! So long as you're directing your efforts towards effecting positive change in the world then I'm all for it.

[Lunareon]

Thank you for this lovely, quiet talk. Screaming and acting aggressively won't win anyone over. There is so much more strength in soft power.

[nospamallowed]

@Sarah Corbett, I have a thought to consider for your quiet climate change activisim: A lot of the people getting frustrated at climate change activism don't do it because they oppose climate change, but because a lot of the "extrovert" activism translates into prohibitive costs and solutions. To truly solve climate change we need solutions that make sense AND are "green". For example, look at EVs. They are not progressing as fast as they should mainly because of the greed of car manufacturers who want to exploit the EV wave to get rich and the lazyness of politicians who are not passing the right laws. Today an EV is (1) expensive, (2) not cheaper to operate unless you charge at home, (3) depreciates extremely rapidly, (4) is very expensive to repair, (5) is full of tech that collects your personal data so that manufacturers can then sell it... even though they dress it under words like "safety" or "convenience". If the focus was on fixing those issues people would flock to EVs whether they cared about climate change or not. And the goal of fixing climate change would be achieved.

[SaltySparrow]

I train employees, and I love introverts. They are dedicated, and focused individuals. We need you guys!

[Yarshy.]

Proud introvert here living in a world built for extroverts.
Love talks like these!

[ZemplinTemplar]

This fine lady gets it. Sarah, if you ever read this, you're doing wonderful and thoughtful work.

[Naomi-cvqo]

I love this so much. It's actuslly so frustrating to want to contribute but also not being able to without it being a real struggle. And seeing people doing the same things and thriving is really hard. Thank you Sarah!

[sevenosaav]

Great talk. thx for getting out there Ms Corbett

[leiannesw]

Thank you for your time and ideas. You are an inspiration. And very brave. Kudos! Cheers! Congrats! Job well done!

[nogmeerjan]

I hope many people hear your very wise words and listen.

[jwilder]

As an introvert who has a passion for animals but doesn't like being around people, I thank you for not only sharing your stories but telling us how we can help without is freaking out

[fabled.]

*Spoiler alert*: Everyone is an introvert in the comment section.

[_MrLee]

Just shows that "People" really are Special and Different. I Believe in Energy and the "Outside World" absorbing. I called myself going out to shoot a rifle for the first time, endeding up getting very sick and having to lay down. Weird things started happening during that... True story

[tlielthuddab]

Amazing! Well done! I'm sure that was really hard to do and I have so much respect for you for doing it! Great talk and a great message!

[angelfreedom]

I am an activist for reform of the adoption industry and social services!

[Alexander-pxyz]

For people who found this useful check out Susan Cain’s TED talk!! So helpful and interesting

[Argomundo]

Professional campaigner, the entire google search is just for crosswords. Im inclined to believe its not a real job. But since were at it, Im a professional shitposter.