How can I become more at ease in social situations?

Question

I'm 15, and I'll be a sophomore. I have no problem talking to and listening to people one-on-one or in small groups, but I have an AWFUL time in larger groups and I also get very nervous when I have to give speeches in class. I'm MUCH better than I was a couple of years ago, but I still have a ways to go.

I've learned to relax, but that's not always enough.

Any advice on how to ease into this would be GREAT, thank you.

Also, I'm not looking for attention, I'm looking to meet new people, learn, etc...Thanks :)

I'm involved in drama and don't have a problem on stage..not sure why that's easy for me and other speaking things aren't.

I don't care what others think, it's just hard for me to initiate conversation and speak in front of large groups because I get nervous.

Answer 1

The best thing to do in a large group situation is find someone to talk to that you already know or have something in common with. I always like to break the ice with a (sincere) compliment - maybe about something they are wearing or their hair. Also, if you share a class you can talk about homework or assignments. People always open up to that and then you can get to know them better.

As far as public speaking goes, practice does make perfect. Make sure that you have your speech down cold and feel very comfortable giving it in front of a mirror at home. When you are in front of the class, find someone in the audience who is sympathetic and interested and look at them from time to time for reassurance.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

As for public speaking, I find that preparation is best medicine for any nervousness or insecurities you may have. Their is no need to doubt yourself when you know what you're talking about.

As for large groups and social gatherings like parties, clubs and other such settings, I think I've observed that the more people that are included, the more superficial the conversation or activity tends to be. It really pays to be good at small talk. Knowing current events and having a sense of humor helps. And convey confidence through your body language and appearance. It may be shallow, but the truth is that people process each other on the most superficial level unless motivated to do otherwise. Appeal to their vanity.

Answer 3

social anxiety is a hard thing to overcome. From personal experience the only thing I can say is to keep doing it. I hate speaking in front of large groups or having to speak with people that I am not familiar with. My breathing become faster my heart races and I start to get hot (sometimes begin to sweat) but then I took a job where I was forced to interview an average of 4 people a day, now i find those to be easier.

One thing you can do is simply start small, take on things one at a time until you become comfortable.

I remember when i was in highschool i had to do a report on a congressman and read it in front of the entire grade (200 peers) and i wanted to die, i read as quickly as i could and swore to never do it again. But you always have to do things again. I have known plenty of teachers who were the same way when they were young but the simple repetition of having to do it kills the anxiety.

good luck!

Answer 4

I used to be shy in high school. sometimes you have to just gather up that courage and say something instead of just listening to everyone else during a conversation. some people say "just act natural". unfortunately either way it will feel a little awkward until you break the ice. once you get used to speaking in front of other it will become easier and then you will feel natural. it takes time

Answer 5

I used to have the same problem when I was your age. I think it just has something to do with the age. You're a teenager and unsure of yourself--it will gradually go away as you mature and become more sure of who you are. I still have a problem with large groups of people, however. Family reunions and stuff just make me anxious and I avoid them like the plague. I think that has more to do with my depression and anxiety problems, though.

Answer 6

You're quite young, so be patient, it usually takes until you get out of your teens before you start to stop caring so much about wat people think of you and start saying 'to hell with it'. I was a terribly shy teenager - but now - i don't give a crap - i say stupid things, do clumsy things and talk crap in front of loads of people - on a daily basis. One thing that may help is to join a drama class perhaps. They help to draw people from their shells. Otherwise, just hold on, remember there's nothing to fear - giving speechess in class terrifies everyone - just stick at it and you'll be fine.

Answer 7

study constantly facilitates, in case you're giving a speech it facilitates to be extremely familliar with what you're conversing approximately. learn it stay it. The extra knowledgeable you're approximately your issue the fewer frightening it is. I constantly prefer to coach it around and make the group apprehensive via having a query precis of what I purely spoke approximately to work out in the event that they actually listened. Quiz them and notice if all and sundry can answer many of the factors you went over via a coach of hands. It makes them somewhat apprehensive if no person can answer your questions.

Answer 8

all it takes is practice. I used to be just like you, now I actually enjoy speaking in public

Answer 9

I have that too, I dont get people who like doing speaches, I almost get sick everytime. Try an anti-anxiety pill or when u get older, have a cocktail.

Answer 10

Beer helps me.