Phone calls. In a world of texts and emails, they feel like relics of a bygone era, especially for the […]

Compliments. They’re supposed to be nice, right? But for the socially anxious, they can feel like spotlights, instantly triggering a

My laugh. Let’s just say it’s…distinctive. A honking, snorting, slightly alarming sound that often elicits more stares than chuckles. For

Small talk: the social lubricant that for some of us feels more like social sandpaper. Those endless, looping conversations about

Parties: the social Olympics. For the socially anxious, they can feel less like celebrations and more like endurance tests. My

“Too tall.” Towering, gangly, always standing out in a crowd. For years, I felt self-conscious about my height. Felt like

“Uneven eyes.” Asymmetrical, slightly mismatched, not perfectly symmetrical. For years, I felt self-conscious about mine. Felt like they made my

Body envy. The green-eyed monster that rears its head in gyms, yoga studios, and social media feeds. For years, workouts

Birthmark. A permanent mark on your skin, sometimes noticeable, sometimes subtle, always uniquely yours. For years, I hid mine. Covered

“Bony knees.” Knobby knees, sharp knees, knees that don’t conform to some smooth, rounded ideal. For years, I felt self-conscious