NeverReallyOver Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 In my mind I imagine myself greeting my friends with a strong hug, being light-hearted, making silly jokes, singing and dancing with them, etc. but then in person my anxiety and shyness kick in and I think I show myself as a serious, quiet and cold person. Most of the times I can barely enjoy the moment with them. Does anybody know any tips that could help me change this? Thanks!
Saintlor Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 Maybe this is bad advice and too time consuming, but maybe you could put your phone on voice recording when you're interacting with people and play it back and see how you actually come across and go through each thing and how you would say it differently
EtherealCat Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 pick the least scary thing you would like to be doing when speaking and work on that first, you cant change everything about how you behave overnight so dont put that pressure on yourself
LCTV Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 If THEY go to hug others upon greeting go in for one and make a slight statement about enjoying a good hug. So they'll mentally note you hug too.
popmusicisdead Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 ok this might sound psychopathic but this really helped me with my social awkwardness. try visualizing social interactions as acting on a play or a movie and you're as playing a character. try thinking beforehand what your character would say or how they would react in certain situations. it's basically improv. obviously don't pretend to be a completely different person but a more outgoing version of yourself. eventually it'll come naturally.
DamianSolo Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 Don't overthink it, just do it. I know that sounds basic; but... just do it. Work on your self-confidence and being more secure in yourself. Once you start breaking out of your shell, putting yourself out there and start having a good time, it'll become easier with each subsequent time. If you need a little extra boost, look into taking supplements that help with mood.
JonginBey Posted July 17, 2023 Posted July 17, 2023 If you're an introvert, I think it's just a matter of two things: timing and/or your level of comfort. Overthinking and second-guessing will only make you reluctant, so just go with whatever you feel in the moment. If you feel the moment calls for a hug, and you know your friends are receptive of that, go for it. Another thing to be mindful of is who you're around. Is there something about your friends, or the energy around them, that hinders you from feeling comfortable? Not necessarily saying they're "bad" people, but even a difference in personalities can be so obvious and triggering.
Recommended Posts