How do I build courage for eye contact

[CinderellasBoot]

I an introvert but throughout my life I've worked at ways to improve my communication skills and ways to seem more confident.

One thing I cannot get a hold of is looking straight in the eye of the person I'm speaking to. I can look at them when they're the ones speaking, no problem. I just get distracted, I guess, when I see the other person looking at me, "reading me", while I'm talking and then I lose my words, as if I can't concentrate any more. This is usually when I'm in conversation with, for example, a colleague. I'm fine with children or close friends/family.

Anyone else the same, or have any tips on how I get over this? Or do I just continue as is?

I feel rude not looking at someone when I'm talking but I just cannot do it for some reason.

Build up bit by bit. Don't try and hold eye contact for the whole or most of the conversation. I tend to chat a bit, make EC, look away and chat more, make EC. ... and repeat! I'm pretty good now, but still have to make an effort.

I used to work in a customer facing role, and a lot of people struggle with eye contact.

Good luck x

Thank you, that makes good sense.