We’ve been talking a lot recently about our presentation as worship leaders. We need to improve our public speaking. Better yet, we should improve our people skills.
I can already hear it:
“But I’m an introvert! I don’t really like being in front of people and I don’t know what to say when I am! Does that mean I can’t be a good worship leader?”
Hardly. Matter of fact, you should use your introversion to your advantage.
I’m a strange cross between an introvert and an extrovert. I prefer my introverted side where I’m by myself, thinking about life, away from people.
Being in ministry has taught me the ways of an extrovert. When you lead people, it’s important that you connect with them and spend time with them.
But what about being an introvert? Should we just take a step back leave leadership to the extroverts? Glad you asked.
Here are 5 truths about being an introvert (and how they can help you):
1. You don’t overwhelm people – As an introvert, it’s likely you have a quiet temperament. And while you would prefer to be by yourself, that quiet disposition can be very effective for worship leading. You help people relax.
2. It’s easier for you to go deeper – Introverts tend to look at the world with focus. They concentrate. When you set your mind on worshiping God, it’s easier for you to go deep, which inspires others to go deeper as well.
3. You’re more concerned with the “why” than the “what” – Introverts are more interested in the idea behind work than the actual work. You focus on the “why” more than the “what”. As a worship leader this is important because the art of leading is secondary to the heart.
4. You’re an effective planner – Introverts are thinkers. We think long and hard before we say anything. Since you don’t feel as comfortable around people, you’ll be driven to prepare your worship set with excellence. You don’t want to step on a stage unprepared.
5. You’ll make your words count – since you’re not a big fan of public speaking, when you have to do it, you make your words count. You’ll think about it, write it out, and practice. This gives you an edge as a speaker – you’re not just spouting out the first thing that comes to mind.
Just because you’re not loud, outgoing, and high energy doesn’t mean you can’t be an effective worship leader. Be unique. Use your personality to your advantage.
Go and be the introverted worship leader your congregation needs.
Question: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? How does that influence your worship leading? You can leave a comment by clicking here.
This was encouraging. Thanks. 🙂
Excellent insight! Love this affirmation.
Enjoyed this David. And us introverts are complete toast by Sunday afternoon!
Amen and amen!
I’ve been teaching a SHAPE Sunday School class for about four years, and I’ve discovered in each class that a majority of them have been introverts. It’s been true in every class without fail. Which brings an interesting dynamic into the ministry of the church, not only in how we minister to introverts, but how do effectively train up introverts to serve – often beyond their comfort zones.
As a worship leader, I think you hit the nail on the head with each point. I am definitely an introvert, much more so than an extrovert. But like you, Sunday mornings and rehearsals find me stepping outside that comfort zone into the world of the extrovert. And while I can do that with some measure of effectiveness, I go home every week drained and in need of refueling.
But, I think my introversion lends itself to listen more quickly (at least I hope it does) to those on my team, as well as to the “silent” needs of the congregation. And if it the majority in that place reflect my SHAPE class, then I need to continue to look at ways that most effectively engage that personality so that they are able to “worship” right alongside the extrovert who has no problem being expressive.
Great insight, David. So through your teaching you’ve found that the majority of people are introverts? That’s interesting…
I am definitely an introvert. I once heard it described like this: an introvert doesn’t mean you are not good in front of people or that you don’t have the ability to function publicly or in front of people, its just means that the place where you recharge and gain energy is when you spend time alone and away from people, and extrovert thrives off of social interaction.
that helped me understand better that “introvert” wasn’t really an excuse to not interact well.
thanks for the post!
Exactly, Adam. As an introvert, I actually enjoy being around people but if I don’t get adequate alone time every day, I get cranky!
Good post, David. I’ve written some stuff on my blog about my journey as an introvert. http://www.tobybaxley.com/search?q=introvert. This was a great affirmation.
Love this, David. Well expressed and right on the money. I’m right there. As I’ve become more comfortable with who I am and how God has made me, I have found more freedom and enjoyment in ministry.
Very inspiring. I pray God can use me to further his plans for my life and his glory!