Don’t Be Shy

Recently I read “Don’t make me think” by Steve Krug and while this is a book on website usability testing it included good reminder that applies well when you are working to overcome shyness.   The idea is that everyone is muddling through – the only difference is that people muddle through on different levels.    A good example is using the internet.  You may be a beginner or intermediate or more advanced.  But on some level everyone muddles through.  No one knows all the best answers to all the possible problems.  But this not necessary to have fun and gain a benefit from using it – which ever your level.  And let’s not forget that as you gain more practice you get better and more comfortable using the internet.

So it is important that as you work to reduce your shyness you remember that other people aren’t perfect.  They too are stumbling their way through social situations.  In fact, usually when someone looks confident in a certain situation the reason is that they have experienced this type of situation many times before.  They have already had practice, and so may now muddle through, albeit on a different level.   Take action and try different social situations and you will soon be muddling through on a higher level too.

Gaining the most for social situations doesn’t have to mean that you have to be the life of the party.  You can have a good experience and fun time by talking with just a few people.  And then the next time you will feel a little more comfortable, so starting the conversations will be a little easier.  And each time after that, it will be a little easier and comfortable. 

Conclusion:
1. Remember that everyone is muddling through.  No-one knows the perfect answer to every situation.
2. You can still have a good time at whatever level you are on.   With each social experience you will feel a little more comfortable, so keep at it.