How I did it: There isn't a certain way that I did it, aside from making it my goal. I just got up one day and said to myself, "Y'know what?! I don't want to be afraid that one of my friends doesn't like the things I do, because if they don't like the things that I do they obviously don't like who I am." And so from then on I just tried to stop being so self-conscious and afraid of what other people might think of me. So I started out with little things, joking around with my friends, and then I stop worrying about what I wear. And then now, I just do what I want, as long as it doesn't hurt someone or or their feelings, because I am really happy with who I am and what I'm doing.

Lessons & tips: The three biggest lessons you need to learn when trying to overcome fear of embarrassing yourself are

• If you are afraid to do something or act a certain way because "your friends" won't like it, the truth is, no matter how cliche it sounds, those people really aren't your friends. Goofing around with your friends is one of the most fun things you can do. So don't be afraid to try. It might turn out that your friends really like it too or that they won't like it at all. If "your friends" turn out to be people who don't like that actual you, literally go and find new friends!
• When you are out in a public place, don't be afraid to be yourself because just about everyone there you'll never meet and if by chance you do I doubt they'll remember you. When you go to the mall with your friends and you might be eating lunch in the food court, don't be afraid to joke around (as long as you aren't being really obnoxious or bothering someone) because those old people two tables down are probably never going to see you again.
• You have to be happy with yourself. I know that this is a really commonly used phrase when addressing a problem like this and you are probably tired of hearing it, but it is completely TRUE! You have to be happy with what you are doing and saying and acting like to overcome your fear of embarassing yourself. If your happy goofing around withyour friend then do it! Whatever makes you happy!

Aug 22, 2009, 06:21AM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer