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Anonymous
I think agoraphobics etc are too focussed in the here and now. Try to remember some time in your life that was embarrasing or difficult at the time but turned out to be worth it. Sometimes you just have to act in the present to lay the foundations for your future self.
A healthy contempt for your fellow man also goes a long way n these situations. Why worry about what somebody thinks of you? They eat, drink, piss, shit and fap just the same as you.
OP: I wouldn't suggest making any drastic changes or jumping in at the deep end. Little and often, my friend. Your aim is improvement, not perfection. Start off by going to public places where there is no pressure to make conversation - go out of town where you won't know anybody, if this helps. Your first "goal" could be to make eye contact with the checkout clerk and smile at them as they hand you the change. Next time, say "hello", "thank you" and "goodbye". The following time, make some throwaway comment about the weather or ask them if it's been a busy day for them - something that can be easily answered but can act as an opening.
Try to talk to real life people as much as possible, just for practice. A relative to begin with, maybe? You'll probably find that a lot of conversation is actually just meaningless stock phrases and bullshit - not every thing that leaves your lips has to be 24 carat insight and profundity. If the conversation dries up for a few seconds, don't panic, that's ok too. In these situations just say the first thing that comes into your head to get things going again. Mention what you plan to do later in the day, or how you're feeling.
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