Shyness is the feeling of anxiety and discomfort in social settings. Many people want to overcome shyness, that very fact shows you are not alone. Taking it a few baby steps at a time, can help you feel more at ease in social situations.

Before we get into ways to combat shyness, remember there is no need to change who you are. If you are by nature a quiet introvert, do not attempt to forcibly transform into a gregarious extrovert. Authenticity counts. Knowing who you are and what you like and dislike is a good place to start.

Being sure of yourself involves investing in your self. Read up on subjects that interest you and learn skills that are important to you. Being around people that have the same interests makes breaking out of your shell easier than trying to fit into a group situation that is diametrically opposite.

A key in overcoming shyness is to redirect that energy somewhere else. Consistently dwelling on how shy you are, is setting yourself up for failure in social settings. Practice observing people and settings; really process your present reality.

Relax Your Stance. Practice sitting, standing and walking with a relaxed posture. Body mechanics play a large role in how you feel.

Smile and Make Eye Contact. The very act of smiling raises your mood, and helps you look more approachable. Remember, there are other shy people out there who need that little encouragement.

Introduce Yourself. Right away, the longer you wait the harder it will be. This opens the door to a conversation and dispels the myth that you are cold or stuck up. Often shyness is misinterpreted by others, they don’t know the battle you have going on in your head.

Focus on Others. It is not so important to have something amazingly witty or intelligent to say, allow other people to shine. Listen to their stories, ask questions and make the other person feel interesting. Remember what they tell you, so you can bring it up at another time. This goes along way in raising your social standing. They will not even notice your shyness, if they end up feeling so special around you.

Learn to Exit a Conversation Gracefully. Abrupt endings cause discomfort for both individuals. Smile and thank the other person, make plans to talk again if appropriate and release the other person. Shy people often have trouble with transitions. Practice in safe and predictable situations, such as with the bank teller. A two minute conversation with a relaxed posture, smiling and asking a simple question about their day, listening with interest, will help build confidence for more open social situations.

Lend a Hand. Be aware of your surroundings; look for opportunities to help out. Volunteering is a great way to start. There are numerous agencies that could use assistance. Serving in any capacity is a great way to take the focus off yourself.

Look at overcoming shyness as a process. Taking baby steps and creating small successes will improve your view of yourself and go along way in conquering shyness.