Overcoming shyness and social phobia

         Overcoming shyness and social phobia has been a goal that I have finally achieved.  Hopefully many of you can relate to this.  Although I am not 100% over my social phobia disorder, I can say that I have cured it at least 75%.  I am senior in college and this is the hardest place for overcoming shyness and social phobia.  From the stuffy classrooms, to snobby kids, to professors calling on you at random, social phobia disorder in college is no joke.  On top of it all my major is marketing which involves giving a ton of presentations in front of 25+ people.  Some classes I have to complete 6 presentations, just to pass.  My social anxiety goes wild when I am in school and sometimes I just want to drop out.  

            However, I have to say that attending college is a major reason why I am overcoming shyness and social phobia.  It has taken me out of my comfort zone and forced me to interact with people I normally would not interact with.  Although this has been one of the most difficult times in my life, I think it is one of the main reasons why I am overcoming shyness and social phobia disorder. 

            To make a long story short I advise anyone reading this blog to step out of your comfort zone as much as you can.  This is the only way you will truly grow.  I know it might sound counter-intuitive but I promise you it is a vital step to overcoming shyness and social phobia disorder.  Doing what you’re doing is not going to get you anywhere, it is time to grow.  Overcoming shyness and social phobia is possible but you have to work at it to succeed.  If I can do it, anyone can. Let me know of any progress, setbacks, or struggles you go through. Let us tackle this disorder together. 

More tips and trick to come.  

Best of luck!

Social Phobia Disorder and Marijuana

I used to be a chronic pot smoker for 10 years, abusing the substance nearly every day...I have finally decided to quit substance and to put it down for good...Seeing if it would have any affect on my social phobia disorder…

So far I have not smoked pot for 25 days and feel like it has 100% helped my social phobia disorder...I am thinking clearly and have regained all sorts of confidence...

Here are a small list of the benefits I have experienced from quitting marijuana so far:

less social anxiety, less depressed, more energy, better sleep, more confidence, more feelings throughout the day, sharper mind, deeper conversations, better people skills, better relationships, very grateful, more productive, better at work, better at school, not as anxious, I feel alive again(not numb all the time), can deal with things rationally, much more positive, clear lungs, exercising more, eating healthier, saving money, more relaxed, working on myself everyday....

There are many more benefits but this is just a few I have seen in the past 25 days of being clean...I will keep everyone posted on my progress...Social phobia disorder is something that I am driven to over come with the help of other techniques. 

I would love to hear other peoples thoughts, comments, feelings on this issue...Maybe you have tried this yourself? Maybe this is something you want to do?

Best of luck and more to come!

Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness

Overcoming social anxiety and shyness is exactly what I did.  The good news for you is that you CAN do the same with some of the simple techniques you find on this blog.  Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness starts with the way you think.  Once you are in the right mindset you are ready to attack this beast.  Here are some steps you can implement today to help overcome this painful and paralyzing disorder.    

Step 1- Positive Thinking:  Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness is almost entirely a mind game.  People with social anxiety disorder tend to over think and over-analyze every social interaction they have with someone.  You have to adopt an “I don’t care” type of attitude.  From this day forward don’t be so focused on what you are saying and doing.  Focus more on what other people are saying and doing.  Make mistakes.  Yes you read that right MAKE MISTAKES!  Don’t be afraid to fail.  Failing is what makes us stronger.  People with social anxiety are so worried about doing or saying the wrong thing.  You need to have a more care-free attitude in order to over come this.  Put Step 1 into action tomorrow and see how you do.

Step 2- Exposure:  Participate in as many social situations as possible...I call this the "exposure" phase. Even if it’s just saying hello to a stranger you pass on the street or joining in a conversation you normally wouldn't join, you'd be surprised how much this works.  This can be very uncomfortable, but the more uncomfortable the closer you are to curing your anxiety.  Do this as much as you can throughout the day for the next 3 months.  It will shock you how comfortable you begin to feel around people.  You will get to the point where social interactions aren't such a big deal.

Step 3-Take Care of Yourself:  This means both physically and mentally.  Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness has to do with how you feel about yourself.  Exercise 3 to 4 days a week.  Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.  “When you look good you feel good.”  Also do things you are passionate about to free your mind.  I like to play golf whenever I find myself over thinking things.  Find something to do where you can get away for a while whether that’s reading, playing guitar, photography, taking a walk etc.  You will be shocked at how refreshed you become after doing something you love.  

Work on these steps every day from here on out and you are well on your way to overcoming social anxiety and shyness.  If you are still struggling make sure to check out my Helpful Blogs that will guarantee you success in defeating this paralyzing disorder.