Don’t Be Shy

Shyness is feeling uncomfortable or apprehensive in social situations.  The discomfort may vary from mild to debilitating and can occur in a range of social situations.  For those that experience shyness regularly overcoming shyness can be a daunting task, but the good news is it can be done. 

Feeling shy often comes from feeling unsure how to belong or relate to a social group or person.  Because people feel uncertain about what to say or how to act they may experience feelings of discomfort and anxiety – shyness.  This is very common, especially when dealing with authority figures, potential partners, and people you have just met.  In these situations we may worry about saying or doing the wrong thing, feeling foolish, offending someone or ostracizing ourselves.  This fear can lead to people withdrawing and being more reserved that they otherwise might and overtime shyness can cause people to avoid social situations where this discomfort may occur.

Avoidance is not the answer and in fact can make the shyness worse.  The less we interact with people the less comfortable we are in social situations, which in turn can lead to more avoidance.  Getting out there and being willing to try new social situations is the key to overcoming shyness.  Willingness and some practice will lead to positive social experiences, increasing confidence and decreases apprehension and overall overcoming shyness.