Most of the time, introverts get anxious in public. People themselves aren’t that scary but the thought of being among them can spook socially anxious people. However, you have already stepped out of the house and want a way to deal with the jitters quickly. Here’s how you can deal with social anxiety in public.
How To Deal With Social Anxiety In Public
Social anxiety for some is an unavoidable obstacle they need to surpass every time they step out of the house. The thought of being around people and being exposed to having conversation is scary. These tips will help you out.
Be Prepared
Know that you are going to be prone to having anxiety in public even before you step out of the house. Carry anything that can make you feel at ease. Headphones, a bottle of water and a fully charged smartphone can help you take your mind off the people around you. Unless it is a convention where you are expected to interact, listening to music shouldn’t be an issue.
If it is a convention, use a mantra. A song, a movie scene or anything that calms your nerves before you go out on stage. This can put your mind at ease.
Meditate
Find a quite corner and close your eyes. Practice deep breathing and watch your thoughts in your head. Do not try to stop them. Let it flow so that your mind becomes empty. Keep doing this for 3 to 5 minutes. Your heart would have stabilized with the deep breathing and your mind will be at ease.
Start Small
You do not need to go out there and give a speech on stage for the first time you attend a stage. Start small, spark up a conversation with a stranger, it can be anyone. It doesn’t even have to be a conversation, just be kind or say “thank you” or “have a nice day.” This can lift your mood and remind you that it’s not impossible to navigate these situations once you dip your toes in the water.
Say No To Negative Thoughts
Your negative thoughts are the number 1 catalyst to your social anxiety. When they say “you can’t do this” or “you’re afraid of people” don’t give in. It is easy to think that people will judge you and find you uninteresting. However, that is far from the truth.
People are busy focusing on themselves, their appearance and their behavior. They are just as nervous as you are. That is why, challenging your thought process and finding out the “why” will help you go a long way.
Be Mindful Of Yourself And Your Surroundings
The next best thing you can do in social situations is being aware of where you are, who you are talking to and your thought process in the conversation. Having a “bird’s eye view” can help you perceive and steer conversations better. You can be more mindful by practicing meditation in your spare time.
Being focused and present is one of the best skills anyone can have.
Bring A Friend
Bringing a friend can help you navigate the social situation quite easily because you will be focused on talking to them. Plus, having a known companion in a sea of unknown people can ease anyone’s anxiety. Bring a friend if possible, wherever you go. It will do wonders for your confidence.
Related Read: How To Make Friends As An Introvert
Be Kind To Yourself
This process is difficult. It is not something that can be solved overnight. But knowing that fact, there is room for improvement. Gradually, you will start to get out of your shell and see how beautiful the world is. Only by forgiving yourself for your mistakes and your shortcomings, you’ll be able to improve and be better than you were yesterday.
Allow yourself to feel and heal, only then would you be satisfied with the person you are becoming. Social anxiety is not something you can get rid of with the snap of a finger. However, it is like learning a skill, it takes time and effort.
If you are in need of comfort and cozy, check out my pop culture page for movie recommendations.