Build My Confidence

[ShadowDancing]

So when I'm around friends or people I know, I'm not that shy. I've actually gotten louder. But when more than a few people are listening to me, I get really nervous and self conscious. I hate presenting projects in school and I freak out even if I raise my hand to answer a question. I blush like crazy, shake, and my hands get all clammy.

I thought I might outgrow it, but it seems to be slowly getting worse.

I want to try speaking up in class more and stop having heart attacks whenever I talk. Any tips?

[Reverie.]

Hey Sam,

I know how this feels and I can totally relate. I think a key to finding ways to overcome this is to tell people. I think if you tell someone they'll be able to understand what goes on when you need to publicly speak more, and that way they'll be able to support you when you have to do so and try to calm your nerves. Over coming shyness is never easy and it never will be, but the fact you want to do that is brilliant!

As hard as it may seem, even just putting your hand up more despite your uncomfort may help. Try to reassure yourself that even if you make a mistake or something, it's going to go well and you're going to be proud of yourself. Even if you don't fully believe it, try to make yourself believe it. It will help. Also, if you feel yourself panicing, take a deep breath, close your eyes for a moment, then continue. Don't rush and don't force yourself to carry on if you really don't feel you can. It's important to stay healthy while you're overcoming this rather than making yourself panic too much to cope. If it comes to having to stop, calmly ask someone if you can have a moment to gather yourself and then continue when you can. I'm sure anyone would be happy with this.

Good luck with this. You're free to PM me if you ever need to speak!
Hollie.