In a related way, I was almost pathologically shy as a teenager, and even into my college years. What may have helped me break out of my shell was becoming a performing jazz musician, and discovering that I could make glaring mistakes with practically no consequences. I also did a bunch of teaching.

Today, I'm capable of, and enjoy, stereotypically introverted activities such as math and programming, and those things have helped me advance my career, but I don't need them as an escape from society.

When asked, I tell people that I'm mildly extroverted. My main reason is simply that there's a stigma against introverts in our society.