Shyness leads to avoidance of social events and other complex social situations. However, the most effective method in overcoming shyness is that of engaging oneself in social activities.

Removing fear of fear

Most of us know that rather than the threatening situations, we are afraid more about our reactions to such situations. For example, stage fright increases if we are worried about trembling in front of an audience. To overcome shyness therefore, removal of this fear is very necessary.

Social events and shyness

The word 'active' means different to different people. Some may find vigorous participation in social events as active whereas others are quiet content by simply being present in a particular situation. Before deciding to be actively involved, you need to define the word active in your own way. One need not count only events like a marathon race as social events. Social events can be on a small scale or a larger scale. Small-scale activities include a birthday party; thanksgiving dinner etc. large-scale social events are more extensive and involve more people. If this is the first time you are consciously planning to engage in social events, then it is better to start with smaller events.

You also need to decide the kind of social events, you prefer over others. You can then make a list of such events and give priority to events, which you find the most comfortable, over those events where you are tongue tied and miserable. Once you are able to attend a couple of your most preferred events, you can go down the list effectively. Try and not miss a single opportunity you get to engage in some function or the other. The more you interact, the easier it gets. You should try and not worry about how you will perform in such events. In the beginning mere participation is sufficient. You can keep a journal for marking your journey. Very soon you will be able to trace your progress successfully. To begin your interactions therefore, all you need is determination and a will to overcome shyness.