I'm SHY but people think I'm SNOBBY?

Question

Well I am always worried and self concious that other people don't like me, but recently I found out that people think I don't like THEM because I seem unfriendly because I'm shy. I was always self concious to smile because i have braces but I'm getting them off not thursday so that wont be a problem ne more. :)

I'm 16 in high school can anyone give me some tips on conversation starters, how to make my body language so i seem relaxed and friendly, how to meet more people outside my regular group. Anything thanks. :)

*Next thursday

Answer 1

I feel your pain... i was once REALLY shy. when i learned that people thought i was being stuck up, i decided to change. it took a while and some practice, but it was worth it. Next time at school or where ever, remember that all humans are built self centered, and they're probably in the same situation, worrying about their hair or shoes or if they said something stupid. you just have to learn to laugh at yourself, and not evaluate every single move you made. In time, people will realize that ur not snobby, and ur fun to be around.

P.S. - Im getting my braces off this week too... so congrats!

Answer 2

Absolutely compliment people!! That will let them know that you are not snobby, just shy. It really works, not only in letting them know you aren't self-absorbed, but also in beginning what could be a lasting friendship. People love to be complimented, & what better way to let someone know you have an interest in them. I wouldn't go overboard with the compliments, just something simple, like..."I love those shoes". That way, you won't have to look them in the eyes for too long (which I'm sure causes you anxiety because of your shyness) and you will probably both be looking down at the shoes. Then just smile & walk away. Don't get into a long speech about where they got the shoes, or what size they are, just quick & simple - to keep your anxiety to a minimum.
Try it. If nothing else, you will make someones day & that often goes a long way in making us feel good about ourselves. Maybe after some practice, you can engage in longer conversations about more interesting subjects....LIKE YOURSELF :o)

Answer 3

I understand your situation too. Maybe you could start of by saying hey hows it going? to anyone you know when you pass them in the hall. People like it when others smile and laugh so if somone says something to you and you think it is funny don't be afraid to smile or laugh. Everyone goes through a time when they have braces and feels embarassed about them so im sure it will be okay. When your talking to someone, don't cross your arms. If you have a backpack on, you could have your hands wrapped around the straps so you won't feel awkward. I hope that helps. Good luck!

Answer 4

Eye contact, is important in social interaction. Many, shy individuals, have a propensity not to make eye contact. Failure, to make eye contact, may be perceived as a lack of respect, a desire to maintain a social distance.

I am not suggesting you stare, or gaze, into the other persons eyes. Evaluate, how you currently interact. If you aren't making much eye contact, increase your eye contact somewhat, and see how it feels. See how people respond to you.

Answer 5

Allow people to talk about themselves and just be nice, poeple will definitly warm up to you. Like ask people who you sit next to in class like what they did on the weekend, or if they finished the hwk. Hopefully this works. Good Luck!

Answer 6

I had the same problem too
What seems to work for me is to just smile
compliment someone on what theyre wearing or some thing like that
act like you're happy to be here
hope this helps!

Answer 7

just smile and say hi to ppl
try to talk whenever the opportunity arises