Being shy is honestly just a very bad habit, that maybe you've had since before you can even remember. Like me, you may be feeling like you've always had troubles socialising with new people, in a group setting, or even a one-on-one conversation. Unless I genuinely feel comfortable around someone, I find it very difficult to strike up a conversation, or even get my thoughts together! Another reason (side note) I got into blogging. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and try to break this bad habit for good.
I have always been shy around new people, and I think it's the way I was brought up. My parents are sociable, but I wouldn't say they're extroverts. They don't express their own opinions around new people, they don't say what's on their mind around new people, and they certainly try to make new people feel comfortable even if they aren't themselves. And I think that's where both my brother and I get our shyness from. Yes, I hate it, but honestly, I've learnt to somewhat accept that that is who I am!
I would say that I worry way too much about what others think of me, I get way to caught up in my mind, and have always imagined different scenarios in my head and made up my responses in different circumstances. These are things that I have struggled with all my life, and I do get frustrated at times and confused as to how I can't just be like others who can speak to anyone about anything! Ugh so annoying!
I'm going to share some tips of mine that have somewhat help me:
- Wear things that make you feel good about yourself and confident. Whether if it's your favourite top you don't wear often, or a bright lip, or your hair curly/straight/up/down, just make sure if makes you feel the awesome you that you are!
- Stand up straight and even act proud of yourself - this will SHOUT confidence to others, especially those new ones you've never met!
- Give yourself a pep talk in front of the mirror before going to a social gathering. I have no idea why, but this works for me! I went to my boyfriends sister's wedding last year, did this, and I honestly made decent conversations with people for hours who I had never met in my life before.
- Do activities by yourself or with a friend or even in a group that will get you out of your comfort zone and getting yourself mixed in with all sorts of personality groups. Whether it be volunteering at your local animal/adoption shelter, rock climbing or going to events, it will really help you with interacting with people.
- Listen to your favourite music, eat your favourite food, and be loose before going somewhere you're nervous about. Tomorrow I have a group interview for a job and I'm so nervous because we're doing icebreakers (ICEBREAKERS... EEEK), but I have my favourite outfit planned, and I plan on dancing to the Biebs before leaving the house! Just to make me feel that little more relaxed.
Just remember, being shy isn't a bad thing. It's a part of who we are, whether you had something bring it on, or if you've had it forever (like mwa), we can together combat and hopefully become a little more outgoing and less scared about socialising.
I hope my tips helped a little bit!! Comment any tips you may have for myself and other readers.
I hope my tips helped a little bit!! Comment any tips you may have for myself and other readers.