There’s no disputing the fact that most people want to be liked. Yes, there probably are some situations where people don’t really care what others think, but if you want to be successful in the world and earn a good living, you’re going to need others to like you.
One of the best ways to accomplish this is by being more social. Of course, this isn’t as always as easy as it sounds, especially not for someone who experiences social anxieties. Luckily, if you are socially awkward and always feel left out of the conversation, you still have to change this.
Acts Like A Social Person
Have you ever sat down and watched a social person in action? If not then you should. Watch what they do, how they interact, and what they are saying to people. Even if you aren’t social or don’t feel like being social, you can simply emulate what the individual before you did. Don’t let anxiety hold you back. Find a social person, watch how they behave, and start implementing that behavior daily.
Start Small
Rome wasn’t built in a day and you aren’t going to grow into a social butterfly in a day either. It is imperative to understand this, otherwise, you will just end up burning yourself out before you even get started.
Different people are at different social levels, but what’s most important is that you don’t overdo it. If going to a party or hanging in a large crowd is too much for you right now start smaller. Simply venture into the grocery store and spark up a conversation with the cashier or a complete stranger.
As social skills and relationship expert Sira M. explains, having some good conversation starters up your sleeve that you can use when you meet new people will help you both prevent potentially awkward situations and make your interactions as pleasant as possible, so it’s well worth memorizing a few that can cover all sorts of situations.
Get Some Practice In
Practice really does make perfect. This is even true when it comes to socializing. So, how does one go about practicing their social skills? Sure, you can walk into a store or restaurant and start up a conversation with a total stranger, but what if even that is too much for you? Well, you can always start online. You don’t even have to be face-to-face with an individual to communicate or socialize with them online. Just hit up sites like Baanpolball that appeal to you and your interests, and you will have access to tons of like-minded individuals.
The Art Of Deflection
If you are socially awkward then there is a good chance that you don’t like talking about yourself. It’s okay there is nothing wrong with this and you can use it to your advantage. People that aren’t socially awkward love talking about themselves. During your practice sessions or when you are speaking to people in real life if you get caught up, all you have to do if deflect. Ask the opposing individual about themselves and they will probably go on and on for hours.
You Must Have Goals
Goals are key and you cannot get anywhere in life without them. Set some small goals for yourself and work up to higher ones. For instance, start by making yourself converse with one or two strangers a week. Then bump it up to making yourself go out to social places one a week. Keep bumping up your goals along the way and the sky will be the limit.
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