Fighting Social Anxiety

I know I'm not representative of all people struggling with social anxiety (in my case, the symptoms are mild and within control most of the time), but I hope to help others who may find it debilitating.

The Art of Meaningful Conversation

BY ANDREW HORN

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcPWvByIpZU

As someone who struggles with social anxiety, this has been really helpful. I hope I do eventually pluck up the courage to interact more meaningfully with others when the time comes. Thank you, Mr Horn.

Key Learning Points:

Be kind. If you have anything nice to say, say it all.

F.A.M. - Find your voice; ask better questions; metamorphic two-step

What is my authentic voice?

What do I care about?

What's important to me right now?

What's my dream?

What am I struggling with?

What am I most excited about?

Asking better questions

Ask yourself before any social interaction, meeting or phone call:

What am I most excited to learn about this person? (Be passionately curious.)

Metamorphic two-step

If we are constantly worried, we are not present in the conversation and won't fully connect.

Before any social situation, ask yourself:

What am I afraid of / what is my undesired state of being?

How do I want to feel? What 3 characteristics should I be displaying?

Conclude with a Gratitude Meditation

Close your eyes. Inhale for 4 counts and exhale for 4 counts.

Think of the person you love and all the reasons why. ("I love you because...")