The first book to explore the distinct personality style of the otrovert - someone who lacks
the communal impulse and does not fit in with any social group regardless of its members - and
to reveal all the advantages of being an otrovert and how otroverts contribute to the world.
If you were the kid who never wanted to go to summer camp if you prefer spending time with
friends one- on-one than going to parties if you would rather forgo your vacation than travel
with a tour group and if you often engage in acts of silent rebellion against group norms and
traditions you are very likely an otrovert. Dr Kaminski has been studying this personality
style for over 30 years. He explains that while otroverts enjoy deep and fulfilling one-on-one
relationships within groups they feel alienated uncomfortable and alone. Unlike introverts
who crave solitude and are easily drained by social interactions otroverts can be quite
gregarious and rarely tire from one-on-one socialising. And unlike loners or people who have
been marginalised based on their identity otroverts are socially embraced and often popular -
yet are unable to conform with what the group collectively thinks or cares about. And therein
lie the great gifts of being an otrovert. When you have no affinity for any particular group
your sense of self-worth is not conditioned on the group's approval. And best of all you know
no other way to think other than to think for yourself. The Gift of Not Belonging urges
otroverts to embrace their unique gifts and equips them with the knowledge and tools to thrive
in a communal world.
