Tips for Navigating Social Situations with Confidence

Social anxiety isn't a condition that has a cure. It's something we can learn how to manage and overcome. I've had social anxiety my whole life, and I've learned some tips and tricks that have helped me feel more comfortable around new people.


Here are a few tips that might help you cope with the anxiety you may feel.

Use self-reflection and goal-setting to increase your confidence. One of the most effective ways to combat social anxiety is to reflect on past experiences and make decisions about how you want to approach new situations.

Start by brainstorming several possible outcomes, then rank them in order of likelihood. For instance, you might rank being rejected from a date with the top-most outcome, while the second outcome might be to make a few new friends.

As you think about different scenarios, write down all of your feelings and thoughts. If you start to become anxious, stop and remind yourself that you can always reassess later.

When you're feeling comfortable enough, share your goals with someone who can support you. They might even be a friend or family member who is happy to watch you succeed.

Find social activities that are easier for you. You can always start small, but you don't have to spend the rest of your life on the couch watching TV. It's okay to make mistakes. Just keep trying until you find a way to make new connections and form friendships.