Alone Time is Money: 6 Careers for Extreme Introverts
Introversion exists on a spectrum, and not all introverts are the same. While some may be happiest with a mix of social time and focused alone time in their jobs, others thrive in complete solitude. We call these people extreme introverts, and the usual career recommendations for introverts—jobs like librarian, data scientist or accountant—might not cut it for them.
For people who really are happiest in their own little world with no annoying meetings to attend, no small talk to make and no office to report to, here are six careers that could be perfect picks.
1. Truck Driver
Driving a truck is the ultimate solo experience. You get to spend most of your day in the driver's seat, free from the distractions and social interactions of an office setting. Plus, you get to see the open road and explore different parts of the country.
However, this job does require some level of communication with dispatchers and other truck drivers on the road. But for extreme introverts who still need to make a living, this career provides the perfect balance between alone time and necessary communication.
2. Forest Fire Lookout
For those who crave absolute solitude and don’t mind being in remote locations, working as a forest fire lookout can be an ideal career choice. This job involves spending extended periods in a fire tower, monitoring the surrounding wilderness for signs of wildfires.
Communication is minimal and typically limited to occasional radio check-ins. The majority of your time is spent alone, observing the natural world in peaceful silence. This position offers the ultimate in seclusion, making it a perfect fit for extreme introverts who find solace in nature.
3. Writer
Writing is often thought of as a solitary profession, and for good reason. Many writers spend hours alone with their thoughts, crafting stories, articles or other pieces of written content. Whether it's working from home or in a quiet office space, introverts can find solace in this career as they have complete control over their environment and the amount of social interaction they engage in.
Additionally, writing allows for self-expression and introspection, which are important aspects for extreme introverts who value deep connections with themselves and their inner worlds.
4. Night Security Guard
For introverts who prefer to work during non-traditional hours, being a night security guard may be the perfect fit. This job typically involves patrolling a designated area and ensuring its safety during nighttime hours when most others are sleeping.
The solitude and quietness of working at night can provide extreme introverts with the alone time they need to recharge. Plus, there is minimal social interaction required in this role, allowing for uninterrupted focus on tasks at hand.
5. Remote Administration
While remote personal assistant roles can involve a lot of talking on the phone and meetings with clients, some administrative roles are much more solitary. For example, a remote data entry or transcription position can offer extreme introverts the alone time they need while still being able to work and earn an income.
You'll be at home all day making your magic happen on the computer, with minimal social interaction required. There will be deadlines, however, so look for a company culture that is laid back and not fast paced.
6. Archivist
Archivists are responsible for organizing and preserving historical documents and records. This career requires a great deal of focus, attention to detail and the ability to work independently for extended periods of time.
Extreme introverts can find solace in this job as they get to spend most of their time alone with the documents, rather than interacting with others. The quietness of working in archives also provides an ideal environment for introverts who prefer minimal noise and distractions.
Want more jobs like this? Truity's Career Aptitude Test can help you discover the jobs that suit exactly your level of introversion, as well as other personality traits and preferences. Not everyone thrives in a social environment, so go ahead and embrace your inner Lone Ranger!
