If you are shy, and you have difficulty coping with people or situations, then I have good news for you. You do not have to suffer from shyness and you should not feel insecure and fear that you are being judged with every step you take. Winning the war with shyness takes practice, but is definitely well worth the effort as the result is increasing confidence and self-esteem. Wake up feeling good about yourself, able to face the world with confidence and security, and the knowledge that no feeling of shyness can come in your way of achieving your desires.
There are hundreds of books written on the subject of how to beat shyness and gain confidence, but there are a few techniques that anyone can practice. Here are 6 suggestions of techniques on how to overcome your shyness:
1. Every morning, as soon as you get up, get in front of a mirror and say out loud “I feel terrific! I feel terrific! I feel terrific!”
Repeat this affirmation with enthusiasm at least ten times every day until it’s ingrained into your subconscious mind. If feel a little self-conscious, to begin with, lock yourself in the bathroom. The results will amaze you.
2. Feel good about yourself
Look your best. Dress up more often. This gives you an extra feeling of confidence and self-esteem. On its own just knowing that you look good will boost your confidence and reinforce to others that there are things about you that are worth getting to know.
3. Take a risk at least once a day
It’s very invigorating and conquering fears by taking risks helps you grow in confidence and self-esteem. Start with small risks and fears and as you overcome them move on to bigger things. There’s nothing you cannot do. Be confident in knowing that change can only help you grow, and boost your self-confidence.
4. When you are engaged in a one-to-one conversation, or with a larger group of people, let them know that you’re shy
This prevents them from misreading you and they are far more likely to invite you into the conversation rather than leave you just listening and wishing you could contribute. Many people, me included, find following a conversation in a noisy room difficult. If you are having difficulty say so and move so that you can hear. People respect honesty and vulnerability and you will attract more honest people into your life as a result.
5. Rejection is a fact of life that everyone experiences
It is rarely you that is being rejected. If you are rejected, for example, if you ask someone for a date, remember that everyone has different likes and dislikes. You may be attracted to one type of person and not others. The same applies to other people and you are probably just not their type. That does not devalue you in any way. Accept this and know that you will get over it. Never take it personally and keep in mind that if people reject you it is because of their own likes and dislikes and not because of who you are. You are equally entitled to reject others because of your likes and dislikes.
6. Engage in activities that make you feel excited and good about yourself or start a hobby that gives you a feeling of relaxation
This could be anything from gardening to Tai Chi to Karate. Take some lessons, learn or master a musical instrument or take singing lessons. Explore and do what excites you – it’s an effective way to overcome shyness.
