How I stopped dreading “tell me about yourself”
“Tell me about yourself” dread. The interview question nightmare. Networking event icebreaker horror. For years, this simple question triggered instant […]
“Tell me about yourself” dread. The interview question nightmare. Networking event icebreaker horror. For years, this simple question triggered instant […]
Group photo dread. The social anxiety snapshot of self-consciousness. Posing awkwardly, worrying about your expression, feeling scrutinized by the camera
Fidgeting. Nervous energy in motion. Tapping feet, twirling hair, clicking pens, restless hands – for years, my fidgeting felt like
Staring paranoia. The social anxiety delusion that everyone is watching, judging, scrutinizing your every move. For years, I felt like
Unprepared toast fear. The public speaking surprise attack. Unexpectedly asked to give a toast, with zero prep time, in front
“Bad joke” fear. The comedic social anxiety nightmare. Telling a joke that bombs, that elicits groans instead of laughs, that
Bathroom party hiding. The social anxiety escape hatch. Parties, especially large, overwhelming ones, often triggered a desperate urge to escape.
“Too loud” voice. The social anxiety amplifier. For years, I was told my voice was “too loud,” “booming,” “unnecessarily loud.”
Small talk shame. The internal critic that whispers, “You’re boring,” “You’re awkward,” “Your small talk is terrible.” For years, small
Public flop. The social embarrassment Everest. Tripping, spilling, saying the wrong thing, making a fool of yourself in front of