mazil wrote:
Mm, I'm reassured that so many of you have said you feel anti-social ... I thought I was a bit on the unusual side in terms of being shy, etc.
Then again, we are all regulars at an internet forum, so it's hard to tell what's "normal"
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
Yes, I agree with that. Although I used to be a lot more 'anti-social', or not being comfortable with big crowds of people, than I am now. The weird thing is that I think I have several different sides of me that work at different times, so for example when I'm put into a social situation (ie. at a loud party or with lots of people), I become loud and crazy and happy and chatty and everything, to adapt to the situation and blend in with what everyone else is doing - I would draw far more attention to myself if I didn't. Otherwise I generally prefer to be on my own.
mazil wrote:
*sighs* Does anyone have any tips for not being anti-social? (or rather, awkward when socialising)
From experience, what I've learned is that you tackle the problem by targeting the source. For example, if you want to not feel awkward when socialising, then ask yourself
why you feel awkward when socialising. It's probably a different reason for different people, but for me it's mostly because I want to make a good (if not perfect) impression on everyone, and because I care/worry about how the person will judge me and/or what I say (well, essentially the same point). So, by telling yourself that what people think is irrelevant and that you don't/shouldn't care so much about it, you can begin to build up self-confidence and be more open/spontaneous (and generally, more 'yourself') around people.
Oh yes, and always try and talk loudly and clearly. It may sound stupid, but if you talk quietly or unclearly to someone (especially in a crowded place) because you're nervous or shy, it makes the situation much more awkward most of the time (having to repeat yourself) than if you were to be too loud, outright, etc.
I hope that post made sense.
![Confused o_O](./images/smilies/icon_confused.gif)