If you particularly enjoy one of your subjects, there may be an academic club you can join to learn more and engage with other students who also enjoy the topic. [4] X Research source
You don’t even need to perform. You can just attend the show and talk to the performers and other audience members.
For instance, you might say, “I did not feel great about that test in chemistry. How do you think you did?” You could ask something like, “Did you enjoy that movie last weekend?” Try complimenting them by saying, “You did great on that solo in band. “[8] X Research source
Talk to people who seem shy. This can help you both feel more confident and comfortable because you might both be in the same boat. Just say hi! You have to start somewhere, and a simple hello is just fine. [10] X Research source
Start with something like, “You’re a friend of Brenda’s right? I’m Sam. Brenda and I go to school together. We met at her birthday. " This takes all the pressure off the other person to remember who you are, and starts the conversation off. If you don’t already know from previous encounters, ask, “How did you meet Brenda?” If you haven’t seen your mutual friend lately, you can ask after them. Say something like, “How has Brenda been?"[11] X Research source
If the group of students you’re joining is in another social group than the one you usually hang out with, don’t let that intimidate you. Remember that the worst case scenario is you don’t make new friends, and if the group of students doesn’t like you, you can always try talking to a different group of people. [12] X Research source
If someone mentions they’re going to see family out of state this weekend, ask them about it on Monday. If a friend was nervous about a math test last week, follow up to see how they did. Remember people’s birthdays and wish them well on that day. [13] X Research source
Ask them, “What would you have done in my situation?” Request feedback on how you can be more approachable or personable the next time you’re in a similar situation. Remind your friend or family member to offer constructive (helpful) feedback, not just criticism of your behaviors. [14] X Research source
Think of someone whose personality you admire - it could be your friend, it could be a family member, it could even be a celebrity. Then, watch them as they engage with other people. Pick up on their body language as well as their verbal cues. They might compliment others or give lots of hugs. Next time you’re in a social situation, try to mimic one or two of their outgoing behaviors.
You could say, “I’m going to a party and want to seem very outgoing. Can you do a little role play with me to see how I might interact with others to seem outgoing?”
Anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help you feel more relaxed on a daily basis, if it’s discovered that your shyness is a result of a social anxiety disorder. A therapist or counselor can walk you through cognitive behavior therapies to help you change negative thought processes, and improve your overall confidence, which makes being outgoing in social situations easier. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing and improving psychiatric care for children and adolescents. Go to source
