The prevailing myth about extroverts VS introverts is that while extroverts are gregarious chatterboxes, introverts are shy and awkward. However, in reality, these dispositions have far more to do with energy than anything else. It may be more rare, but you can actually encounter shy extroverts and confident introverts!

Much like the early bird VS the night owl debate, there are pros and cons to both personality types - yet our world is generally geared up to cater to extroverts (just as it to early birds). This is especially true in the workplace which is built upon a foundation of social interactions and situations. 

Introverted qualities include taking longer to process information (due to their introspective, thoughtful nature), thus being highly observant while also having a particular flair for focussed work. While these traits certainly carry positive elements, they're not always obviously beneficial in creative scenarios - so what can introverts do to maximise their creativity? 

Ideas first, brainstorming second 

We all know that brainstorming sessions are a pillar of creativity and idea generation in the workplace. While these sessions are often productive, they can be less fruitful for introverted individuals. For the most part, extroverts are natural talkers; they flesh out ideas by verbalising them, meaning in brainstorming sessions they're likely to be firing out idea after idea. Conversely, introverts are thoughtful and considered - they have a deep inner world and like to digest, then process information more slowly. They are just as likely to have good ideas; it just takes them longer to reach a point where they're willing to share them.

There is a very simple way of combating this - set meeting agendas ahead of time, and ask everyone (extroverts included) to bring their own ideas prepared. Not only does this give introverts more time to compile their ideas, but it actually benefits the whole meeting. "Groupthink" is a phenomenon where groups end up in unanimous agreement in order to maintain the harmony of the whole - but by going around the room asking for each individual's ideas, everyone is heard and more unique ideas are brought to the table - win-win!

Observe - then comment 

While extroverts are busy butterflying their way around social occasions, introverts are more likely to be found carefully watching and absorbing the atmosphere. This is as true for work culture, generally, as it is for bigger events. This is also a good example of the differing benefits of extroverts and introverts. While extroverts are likely growing their network, introverts are noting the subtleties within a particular environment. Introverts might not always be active participants, but they're likely to have a better understanding of a workplace's culture than their extroverted counterparts.

So what does this mean for creativity? Well, for one thing, it indicates that when it comes to establishing an innovative culture, it should be introverts taking the lead. To make this happen, introverts need to make sure they apply their knowledge, rather than just storing it up inside. If you're an introvert, you may well have a wealth of knowledge that could transform the operations within your office. The real hurdle is having the confidence to speak up and implement changes based on key observations. When introverts do this they can adjust the overall output of creativity of their office, for both themselves and their extroverted colleagues. 

Practice focussed daydreaming 

It's the talent practically every introvert has a flair for: daydreaming. While extroverts are busy learning through experience, introverts are learning through reflection. Daydreaming is a perfect pastime for introspective and thoughtful introverts. It also just so happens to be a great boost to creativity. When we daydream we give the focussed part of our brain a break and allow our subconscious to work overtime. 

This is great news for creativity as the majority of our ideas are formed outside of the conscious mind. When introverts allow themselves to indulge in the act of daydreaming they're increasing their creative capacity. However, it is important that you feed your brain with relevant knowledge first - it is the fusing of bits of existing knowledge which produces new creative ideas.

Try creative solitude 

While introverts can still enjoy friendships and social occasions, they also need time to recharge by spending time alone. This can be used to a creative advantage; by spending some time working from home or in a quiet place, introverts can really maximise their ability to focus intensely. Doing this is a perfect opportunity to develop or begin actioning ideas which have been brought out by daydreaming sessions.

Introverts are drained by over-stimulating environments - noise, people and even lighting can all have an impact on an introvert's ability to work well. While team-based collaborative work is sometimes necessary, spending time alone can still be a great way to build on big ideas and personal projects. This way introverts can get the most out of their preference for peace and quiet. 

Introvert or extrovert, there are pros and cons to either side. The good news for introverts is that there are many creativity-enhancing practices which fit with their preference for time alone. After all, as Barbara Powell says: 

"Every kind of creative work demands solitude, and being alone, constructively alone, is a prerequisite for every phase of the creative process." 

Written by Chris Griffiths with Caragh Medlicott. Chris is a world-leading creativity expert and creator of the app www.ayoa.com – a platform used by top thinkers to boost productivity