I’ve always felt super uncomfortable and shy around authority figures. At work, I get along really well with my coworkers, I’m able to joke around with them, etc. My problem is socializing with my boss, supervisors and anyone who has authority over me. I feel really anxious around them and avoid any conversations other than small talk. As a result, they see me as really shy and closed off even though I’m not like that with the rest of my coworkers. It really embarrasses me when they try to joke around with me and I come off really awkward and boring. Any tips on how to feel more comfortable being myself around them?
2 comments
“Has authority over me” makes it sound way more profound than it actually is. These people are managers at some company and you are an employee. That’s it. They aren’t your masters or superiors in any way. They are cogs in the machine too, and just serve a different purpose at your employer. They can’t say or do shit about your personal life or who you really are. As long as you perform your job satisfactorily, there is nothing to be anxious about with them. You are making work stuff too impactful on your personal life and sense of worth.
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