First off, I'm a 20 year old college male. I've been shy all my life and I guess this branched off into being awkward and having a lack of confidence. To give you an idea of how shy I am, I have no friends at college (I've been here for 3 semesters) and I have only 2 good friends at home (when I'm around them my awkwardness and lack of confidence almost disappears). I also joined a club in college, do dorm activities, but no help. I have never remotely been close to having a girlfriend and the last girl that I could call a friend was in first grade. I'm very attractive, however I know it doesn't mean squat w/o confidence. I try to put myself into social settings more (as in class group work) and when my peers are talking in class, but everything I say just gets blown off and no one really wants to hear me. Is it at all possible to improve myself or am I screwed for life? Thanks in advance.
2007-10-30 15:16:51 · 3 answers · asked by surftaco600 1 in Family & Relationships ➔ Friends
I would recommend public speaking and communications courses. These helped me loosen up and feel more comfortable in front of people when I was in college. Also, there is a quote that I once read in a book relating to how to handle yourself in social situations that has stuck with me for many years: "Action cures fear." In other words, don't spend too much time thinking about things. Be the first to volunteer to speak up in class. Introduce yourself to people with a smile and say hello next time you see them. Remember names. These are the simplest and hardest things for people to get used to. Try reading "7 Habits of Highly Successful People" if you want some more insight!
2007-10-30 15:42:19 · answer #1 · answered by bigbill 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I used to be like you. A friend gave me a book by Barbara Walters "How to talk to almost anyone about anything" or something like that. It changed my life. She gives you tips to increase your self confidence, and teaches how to really talk to almost anyone from senator, CEO, biker dude, cute girl. I really recommend that book. I can now strike up a conversation with a complete stranger waiting in line at a movie. And when you learn one thing you can try it out in the cafeteria line.
2007-10-30 23:08:26 · answer #2 · answered by old beatnik 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
agoraphobia
2007-10-30 22:44:12 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋