I have this hobby that I’ve gotten pretty good at (similar to juggling). There’s a community for it in my city and a club that meets up once a week in a gymnasium or at a park. I’ve always wanted to join but social anxiety has prevented me. I think I’m mostly over the anxiety now, and it’s just a matter of lacking either confidence or social skills.
Can I get some advice on how to walk into this club’s meeting, have a good time, and not feel awkward?
I walk into the gymnasium, everyone looks and sees a new face.. Who should I introduce myself to first? Should I introduce myself to everyone the first day? What can I say to introduce myself? What questions can I ask? What positive thoughts can I hold onto? How should I carry myself? Basically.. How do extroverts DO IT?!!
Any insights or answers would be greatly appreciated 🙂
2 comments
The best advice I’ve heard is to imagine you’re going to a place you visit all the time. From there the hardest part of starting a conversation with someone is usually hello. Comfort will come over time.
You got this I’m excited for you!
Is there an email or social media contact person you can reach out to as an introduction before you walk in? Just knowing one person’s name can give you some confidence, and that way you’ll know who to approach when you arrive.
If you want to give yourself a lifeline in case you get anxious, you can also say something like, “Hey, I’ve been wanting to come check this out for a while! I might not be able to stay late, but thanks for having me!” Then you can cut out early without worrying about how it’s going to be perceived.
Good luck!