Welcome to our Introvert Interviews series, where I talk to introverts from all walks of life about their experiences and their introversion.
Meet Christopher Daplyn. Chris is an accountant with a life insurance company. He’s also a huge fan of the band Under A Banner.
Are you reading any interesting books right now?
I am currently reading The Handmaid’s Tale. I previously read the excellent Brave New World and this book was first on the recommended reading list of similar dystopian novels.
What made you interested in being an accountant?
It was nothing more than the fact that my Dad had worked with numbers. Perhaps there were less opportunities back then…especially as I come from a more rural background and not a big city.
How much of an effect do you think being an introvert has had on your career as an accountant?
I have probably missed opportunities because it is quite easy to get exasperated as an Introvert. People haven’t got time for you to think before you act or say something, and the temptation sometimes is to “give up” in that situation. I’ve always believed that action speaks louder than words but, thinking back, I’m not so sure these days…
Your Twitter bio says your favorite band is Under A Banner. What do you like about their music?
It is more than just the music, which is excellent. They are genuinely a talented band and I’m interested to see where they can go with their adventure. They are also working so hard to get noticed. But almost more than that they are genuinely interested in their fans, especially the main man Adam Broadhurst, who always has time for fans of the band on Twitter, Facebook and in person at gigs. I feel you’re really willing to plug and support a band when you feel part of the family.
What was your reaction when you first learned you were an introvert?
It was a mixture of empowerment and frustration really. Empowerment because I finally understood the “problem”, and could possibly do something about it, and frustration because I know that working and living in an Extrovert dominated world is hard work. Ideally you need buy-in from those around you but it isn’t often there through things like ignorance and lack of time available to take account of people’s difference.
If you were able to travel back in time, is there any advice you would give to your younger introverted self?
I’m not sure really. Everything is easier in hindsight. I suppose as an Introvert I have learned that it is important to make that effort and speak up a bit more, even if you have to withdraw to recharge your batteries for a while afterwards…
Is there an occasion that comes to mind where you were glad you spoke up?
I think that would be at North East London Polytechnic, where I studied my degree in Finance (boring, I know 😊). I had a rocky first year but then totally dominated every lecture, narrowly missing out on a 2:1.
Thanks for your answers Chris! It is hard living in this world, but I’m glad to hear you’re making it work.
