How I did it: Go to university, then got a job as a teacher.

I went to university in a country half the world away from home and somehow it made me feel less self-conscious. I met new friends and none of them had expectations of me being who I used to be. So I could create a whole new "me"... which was sort of faked confidence at first, but this grew into something slightly more real over time.

Being a teacher was scary at first. Speaking in front of people, especially parents, was the bane of my life. The more I did it the less uncomfortable I felt. I still feel scared when meeting new people for the first time, but it just takes getting used to. Fortunately I had friendly colleagues who broke the ice before I even had time to worry about it.

Lessons & tips:

• Practice speaking to close friends and family first.
• Even if you're not feeling confident about yourself, create a facade first and you will grow into it.
• When speaking to colleagues socialise with the friendly ones more. Don't bother with those who put you down just to make themselves look good.
• When speaking to customers (or parents in my line), don't take anything they say too personally.

Resources: The mirror.
Every morning I looked into the mirror and silently told myself that everybody I'll meet is going to like me. Even if I felt the total opposite and just wanted to crawl back under the blankets.

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Jul 07, 09:15AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers