How to overcome shyness?

(6 replies)

by sweensiebeansie

10 months ago

Viewed 1125 times

Hi everyone, my name is Miranda. I'm 16 and for about as long as I can remember, I have been incredibly shy. I find it really difficult to speak to someone unless spoken to no matter how badly I want to talk to them. And even when they do talk to me, I almost always become increasingly awkward and honestly, have no clue what to say! Any tips and/or advice would be greatly appreciated. :)

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Leobeauty replied 10 months ago:

AWWW youre so cute! I Used to be like that tho and probally not to that extent but i would say first embrace it! make fun of yourself and trust and believe the ones that mind, dont matter! and the ones that matter, dont mind! seriously..and smile alot so that ppl will know your approachable. your'e simply a catapliar becoming a butterfly..hope this helps <3

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EnigmaMCMLXIV replied 10 months ago:

Hi Miranda it is not uncommon to feel awkward at the age of 16 believe me been there and done that. :)

If you are interested in approaching people in general, or a young man, you could consider rehearsing what you want to say to this person. It makes it easier on the approach if you have an idea of what you want to talk about.

I also agree with Leobeauty, smile a lot it helps relax you and the person you are interested in talking with. I am a big fan of eye contact though some people find it unsettling. The biggest thing is be yourself. Have fun because people are people no better and no worse then you!

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dedece replied 10 months ago:

Hey Miranda! I was so shy at 16! Like the other two commentors said, smile a lot. Just relax, it can be hard when you are a teen. But you can do it! First just start talking to the people who approach you or look like they want to talk to you. Just say a little bit at first, then try to say even more when you get comfortable. Which you will. It just takes time. Shyness can be normal for a little while. You do get out of it. I did. It took me much longer than others. But I have a feeling it won't take you that long! Have faith. And yes, be yourself!

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Abbie02 replied 10 months ago:

I was exactly the same at your age! Now I'm 19 and have almost overcome my shyness issue; what i've done is to communicate as much as possible with those whom I felt most comfortable with, eg. best friends and family. That way I've managed to build up confidence to speak to others more relaxed and less shy! But still, this takes time as overcoming shyness doesn't happen overnight and believe me I wish it did! :) And of course, just be yourself, No-one can force you to be an outgoing person! :) xx

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Tasham5 replied 10 months ago:

Hi Miranda,

I am also 16 and going through the same thing but getting better with overcoming my shyness every single day. I use to always sit in the back of the class and would not talk to anyone in class, but know I am am not as shy as before.While I am improving, I still struggle. Some things that helped me out a little is talking to other shy people. Chances are that there is someone who is around you every day that is just as awkward and as shy as you that wants to break out of their shell. Also, a very outgoing girl at my school told me that I should try out for a sport or join a club to get out there and start talking to other people. Finally, embrace your awkwardness.Who dosent love clumsy, awkward people like you and I??? One more thing... I think you should watch this web series on YouTube called Awkward Black Girl or a TV show called The New Girl. Both of these shows make you want to embrace your awkwardness (no matter what race you are) and they are hilarious.

Good luck on your shell breaking journey,

Natasha

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ModeratorB2121 replied 9 months ago:

Miranda,

Thanks for the kind responses everyone! Great advice! Miranda I had to go back to check your age...You are only 16! My neice is 15 and is going through the same thing. She is so vivacious at home however, which is when she comes 'alive' . This explains the fact that perhaps, you should try explaining and expressing yourself with the people your are most comfortable with(i.e. family). You could see this like a rehearsal of sorts. If you have a best friend or sister , brother even Mum would be willing I am sure to 'role play'.

So yes it will be different when its actually someone else, but at least you will find you stumble less etc., so have a list of questions you are more concerned with if/when you go on a date(people do this for interviews and presentations too). Have them ask you some 'popular dating questions' or (you know best the scenarios in which you feel clumsy) and answer, do this say once per week or whenever there is some extra time..Actually carve out some time just to this if even one question daily or weekly. This along with the great advice above you will be on your way.

There is also Toastmasters(check them out online) I should start a Toastmasters for Teens eh? (:-

I was never this concerned about being shy at your age..and then I got to Grad school and had to give Grand rounds weekly huge auditorium with medical professionals and researchers..Yikes! I got over it, but it is great that you are only 16 and are starting NOW rather than LATER ..by the time you get to be 20 (and I am sure you will before then) (:- Everyone will be telling you (hopefully tactfully and nicely), to speak less... Don't worry..You will be fine. There are worst things to be and to worry about and overcome at your age-We have your back Miranda..You will overcome this one-not impossible. Good luck and let us know how you are doing! Take care.

"Remember to always celebrate the beauty in you"

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