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Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness — Step by Step

Shyness and social anxiety can range from mild to extremely debilitating. They can stop people from developing friendships, working, and even going anywhere in public. Many well-known figures have experienced social anxiety — including Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Harrison Ford, Brad Pitt, Michelle Pfeiffer, David Bowie, David Letterman, Nicole Kidman, and Jim Carrey. The more you learn and understand it, the more you can feel in control.

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Journal

How to Stop Reading Faces for Signs of DisapprovalA brief glance, tightened mouth or distracted expression can feel like a clear verdict when social anxiety is active. Your mind may quickly translate an…
Breathing Techniques for Calmer Phone CallsA phone call can feel surprisingly intense when social anxiety is involved. The ringing, the pause before someone answers, and the fear of sounding awkward can…
How to Speak Up When a Group Opinion Feels WrongDisagreeing with a group can feel risky when you are shy or socially anxious. Your mind may predict awkward silence, criticism, embarrassment or the fear that…
Why You Might Avoid Making Plans Far in AdvanceMaking plans weeks or months ahead can seem sensible. It gives you something to look forward to, helps friends coordinate their calendars and may secure…
How to Find Common Ground with Someone You Just MetMeeting someone new can feel surprisingly demanding when you are unsure what to say, how much to share, or whether the other person is enjoying the…
What to do when you blush or sweat in social situationsBlushing, sweating, trembling and a hot face can make an ordinary conversation feel like a public performance. You might notice damp palms before a work…
Mental Preparation For Networking Events As An IntrovertNetworking events can be useful without becoming a performance test. For an introvert, the hardest part may happen before the event: imagining awkward pauses,…
Asking for Directions Without PanicNeeding directions or assistance in public is an ordinary part of daily life, yet it can feel intensely exposing when you live with social anxiety or strong…
How to Use Your Phone Less When You’re with Other PeopleA phone can feel like a small shield in social situations. Looking at a screen gives your eyes somewhere to go, fills quiet moments and creates distance when…
Why mornings can intensify anxiety before a social dayWaking up with a tight chest, racing thoughts or a strong urge to cancel plans can feel confusing, especially when the day has barely begun. Social anxiety…

Explore the Shyness and Social Anxiety blog for more articles and insights.