Meet the Other Phone. Only the apps you allow.

Meet the Other Phone.
Only the apps you allow.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To ask if you're shy?

11 replies

Metalguruisityou · 06/08/2024 19:03

I still am in my mid 30s. I do take anxiety medication and it has an effect to some extent but I think I'll always be naturally shy.

I still talk to people, but just occasionally get a little nervous/giddy/red depending on who it is.

I wouldn't feel comfortable saying daft things in front of certain people, and I hate the thought of having all the attention or eyes on me.

We have a work's night out on Friday and I'll not be staying long in any case due to money, and I don't drink either but conversation just escapes my head.

I sometimes feel more like I'm interviewing people and just fire questions at them rather than making a natural conversation. I really struggle in noisier environments too.

I've recently had a friend of a friend interested in me which is a miracle and he's been texting me, but I'm worried that once he spends more time with me IRL he'll be put off by my personality.

OP posts:
PeppyMintWriter · 06/08/2024 19:21

Shyness is a fear of not having control in social situations. It can, as most other fears, be treated with exposure to what you are afraid of until you learn that you no longer have to fear it.
Not easy, but facing your fears never is.

Metalguruisityou · 06/08/2024 19:35

This might sound silly but I'm scared of coming across as arrogant, or having people saying 'Who does she think she is.'

So I'm scared of saying 'too much' and having people think I'm full of myself or something.

OP posts:
KnickerlessParsons · 06/08/2024 19:41

Yes. Very. I've learned to over come it though. Most of the time.

RedHelenB · 06/08/2024 19:42

Stop thinking about yourself so much. Concentrate on having a good time, show an interest in others and then you'll find those that like you for yourself

PeppyMintWriter · 06/08/2024 19:45

It's completely normal to feel shy, and it's also common for people to feel shy at different points in their lives. Overcoming shyness can take time and effort, but it is possible with practice and support. You may find it helpful to gradually expose yourself to social situations, work on building your self-confidence. Why don’t you look at seeking guidance from a therapist or counsellor.

XenoBitch · 06/08/2024 19:46

Yes, I am very shy. I still hide behind my mum when she talks to someone, and I am in my 40s.

Beth216 · 06/08/2024 19:46

I'm a shy introvert. Unfortunately the world is run by extroverts for extroverts. I'm perfectly happy being a shy introvert but plenty of people will tell you it's a problem or wrong.

Winederlust · 06/08/2024 19:51

Metalguruisityou · 06/08/2024 19:35

This might sound silly but I'm scared of coming across as arrogant, or having people saying 'Who does she think she is.'

So I'm scared of saying 'too much' and having people think I'm full of myself or something.

I've always been shy, and have actually found the opposite to be honest. My shyness and difficulty with making small talk has led people to tell me they found me standoffish at first, like I think I'm too good to bother with them.

My shyness has decreased with age...I think probably because I just care less what people think of me!

quockerwodger · 06/08/2024 19:54

I was always accused of being shy as a younger person. I'd not want to talk to people, I'd rather be alone, being in groups exhausted me and at parties and functions I'd stay at the back and wait until I could leave etc.

"Why are you so shy?"
They'd ask.
"I don't know" I'd reply.

But I did know, I knew then, I know now.

I do not like people, I have no interest in people, I don't care how people are doing and I have zero Intention of ever getting to know some prick just because a trivial situation has put us in a similar location.

My psychiatrist says it's SPD.
I dunno about that.

0psiedasiy · 06/08/2024 19:57

Winederlust · 06/08/2024 19:51

I've always been shy, and have actually found the opposite to be honest. My shyness and difficulty with making small talk has led people to tell me they found me standoffish at first, like I think I'm too good to bother with them.

My shyness has decreased with age...I think probably because I just care less what people think of me!

You sound like your describing me

VioletMountainHare · 06/08/2024 20:06

I’m shy and quiet and recognise the accusations of aloofness. Makes it hard to get to know people.

I avoid work nights out completely. Used to make excuses but now I just decline from the start.

I’ve realised recently that the only person who has ever seen the real me is DH, with everyone else I’m too shy to let my guard down. I’m sure once the person you’ve been messaging gets to know you better they’ll still want to be around you. It’s hard but just be yourself, the right person will make you feel more confident in yourself.

New posts on this thread. Refresh page
Swipe left for the next trending thread