Being Creative and Introverted, Shy or Highly Sensitive in the Arts

Many actors, musicians, authors and other artists consider themselves introverted or highly sensitive, or identify themselves as shy.

But ‘shy’ is a convenient term often used by journalists and others – and some people may use the term about themselves or other people, but really mean highly sensitive or introverted.

Shyness – a form of anxiety – should be distinguished from the personality traits of introversion and high sensitivity (sensory processing sensitivity), although all three can overlap in ways.

Winona Ryder once commented, “I’m too sensitive for this world right now; I just don’t belong here. It’s too fast and I don’t understand it.”

From article Using Your High Sensitivity Personality As an Actor.

She also has said “The whole, like, sensitive, fragile thing. I do have those qualities, and I just don’t think there’s anything wrong with them.”

Actor MaryBeth Schroeder on attention:

“When I explain to people that I feel bashful or uncomfortable when they look at me, there is always a ‘BUT YOU’RE AN ACTOR! AREN’T YOU USED TO IT?’

“No. I’m an actor for a much deeper reason than ‘I want people to stare at me’. There have been times where I actually hide UNDER something until the time I’m ready to be looked at.”

MaryBeth Schroeder “is a model, actress, and is currently writing and acting in a new web series called Casual Hex.”

Emma Watson on being introverted:

“I feel like I’ve been given a lot of credit where it isn’t due that I don’t like to party.

“The truth is that I’m genuinely a shy, socially awkward, introverted person.

“At a big party, I’m like Bambi in the headlights.

“It’s too much stimulation for me, which is why I end up going to the bathroom! I need time outs! …

“I get anxious. I’m terrible at small talk and I have a ridiculously short attention span…

“I feel a pressure when I’m meeting new people because I’m aware of their expectations. That makes socializing difficult.

“Which isn’t to say that when I’m in a small group and around my friends, I don’t love to dance and be extroverted. I am just extremely self-conscious in public.”

See much more in article Being Creative and Introverted, Shy or Highly Sensitive in the Arts.

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