From Introvert to Social: How I Learned to Connect with Anyone
We have all heard the phrase, “You’re just shy.” For years, that was me-quiet, reserved, and often battling the weight of social anxiety. It wasn’t just about being an introvert; it was the paralyzing fear of being judged for even the smallest actions. That even something mundane like getting up to go buy food or crossing over to a crowded room became an impossible task. My heart started pounding, my thoughts spiralled, and what should have been the most ordinary moment for anyone suddenly became life and death.
Social anxiety joined me wherever I went. It was not just a matter of coming a little short in public because, after all, I also had it in my room. I did not stop criticizing myself when I was alone. I over analyzed every conversation, every little slip-up, replaying moments endlessly. When someone made a small mistake in front of me or struggled with his words in a conversation, it felt like Mount Everest. These moments have been with me as heavy bags baggage which I cannot shake off.
Then, one day, I declared, “No more.” I was taking baby steps-taking small victories and, over a period of time, eventually gaining confidence. It started with conversations in the mirror and forcing myself to say hello to strangers, reminding myself repeatedly that the world wasn’t watching my every move. Gradually, I was challenging that voice inside that told me I wasn’t good enough.
With time, the knots in my stomach relaxed, and social interactions simply became easier. I can walk into a room, bring up a conversation, and enjoy it now. Change doesn’t happen overnight; it requires patience and persistence; now, I have moved from being socially anxious to easily talking to anybody. And it’s possible, and that’s empowering.
