How To Socialize As A Shy Person

Shob:

It’s been a while I haven’t written a personal post, and honestly, I miss it! As I got home from a weekend (I’m talking 20 hours) of yoga teacher training (and reflecting on how close I’ve gotten to my fellow trainees, compared to just last month), I realized it’ll be a good time to cook up this post!

Ok first thought that comes to my head: am I shy? See, this has always been a debatable topic. I honestly love keeping to myself. And years of previously working in retail made me permanently despise people (people in sales or customer service amirite?). Just kidding, I’m harmless. But, in a nutshell, I’m an introvert with socially nurtured extrovert qualities. So as a shy person, here’s some easy ways to socialize without deviating too much from your comfort zone.

1. Technology. Ahh the magical era, where socializing doesn’t necessarily start face to face (hello Instagram, dating apps etc!). My platform constantly gives me the opportunity to connect to like minded individuals via Instagram and I love it! Sending memes or simply replying to stories, there’s so many options to communicate.
2. Coffee dates. This can be a continuation to #1 (which is typical in my case), but I like to reach out and grab coffee to those people (fellow bloggers or pr people typically) I’ve established a good relationship with via the gram. Intimate conversations are much less nerve wracking and longer lasting.
3. Find another shy person. When walking into a room/event, it’s pretty easy to spot those who’re not having a grand time making friends
4. Ask people something about them or start with a compliment. Sales 101, act curious. People love having to talk about themselves, and making them feel important automatically bumps you up to ‘likable’.
5. Always answer a smile and yes, smile. Smiling is the best medicine! It can easily make a very approachable. Similarly, if someone smiles your way, talk!
6. Go to the main source. When you’re walking into a place and don’t know anyone, the best thing to do is go straight to the host/teacher/coordinator or whoever the main person in charge is.
7. Find common ground, find something apparent to talk about or just compliment. A very classic tip. Maybe it’s the typical ‘comment on the shirt they’re wearing’ or ‘hey I hate how hot it is outside!’.
8. And (the best tip) imagine the worst has already happened. This is the best advice I’ve ever gotten! Don’t be afraid to be embarrassed. Imagine, in your head, the worst possible situation has already passed and you survived through it!

Thanks for reading. Now go out there, unafraid and be the social butterfly that you are or can be!