Light of the Party Confidence in Social
Situations
If you’ve ever been to a social gathering where
you’ve felt awkward and uncomfortable, chances are you are not alone. While
social gatherings can be very enjoyable, especially when we are surrounded by
people whose company we enjoy, there are social events that we attend where we
sometimes find ourselves wishing we were someplace else. Such occasions can
sometimes be the cause of much anxiety and self-consciousness. We may even feel
like everyone else is having a good time except for us. Yet the truth is that
everyone has felt shy and awkward on occasion. One of the best ways to overcome
self-consciousness or get past your feelings of shyness at social gatherings is
to focus on the people around you. If you can remember that other people might
also be feeling awkward or shy, you might find the thought of speaking to them
less intimidating or overwhelming.
The next time there is a social event
you feel nervous about attending, you may want to try this exercise: Spend some
time with your eyes closed and breathe deeply. When you feel ready, create your
own zone of comfort by visualizing yourself surrounded in a warm white light
that is protective yet accepting of others. Imagine people at the event being
drawn to you because of the open and warm feelings that you are radiating. When
you arrive at the event, take a moment to spread this same light of loving
acceptance to everyone around you. Smile and greet people warmly. Try going up
to someone who is standing alone and introduce yourself. When you radiate
acceptance, openness, and receptivity, people can’t help but respond to you in
kind.
Focusing on how we can make other people at a social gathering
feel at ease can help us forget about our own insecurities. In the process, we
end up making the very connections that we seek. The next time you attend a
social gathering, invite people to join you in your zone of comfort that you
have so lovingly and intentionally created. Let yourself enjoy being encircled
in the warmth of their friendships. |