This photograph was taken when I was just 16 years old. I was a fairly shy and reserved teenager. Being fairly shy can vary from person to person, but generally, it involves feeling nervous or uncomfortable in social situations, especially when meeting new people or being the centre of attention. It might mean preferring to listen rather than speak in group settings, feeling anxious about speaking up or needing time to warm up to new people. However, being shy doesn’t mean someone can’t enjoy socializing or forming connections—it just might take a bit more effort or time for them to feel comfortable. These situations describe how I spent my teenage years.
Having said all of that, a person can grow out of their shyness as they mature by having those friends who are caring because they understand how you feel or by having some friends who are a ‘little’ more extroverted, that can help too. Those friends have helped to bring me out of my shell. I am perhaps not as shy as I used to be because I am mature these days. 😉 When you have the right people around you, they can help to bring out the very best in you.
An old friend once said:
Imagine standing in front of an audience. Now imagine them all naked! 🤣🤣
I think I was scarred for life, imagining people I knew, naked, however, it seemed to do the trick and I have never looked back.
My real friends are the people who watch over me, from a distance, particularly as I am now “flying without wings.” They are the people who were there for me when I was younger when they sensed that I was a little shy. Some of those people are no longer with us anymore and I miss them all dearly. Losing friends who have passed away is incredibly difficult. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve and remember the good times you shared with them. Writing this blog is a way of honouring their memory.
Feeling more confident and less shy often comes with practice, exposure, and self-acceptance. Engaging in activities that challenge you, setting small goals, and celebrating your progress can help build confidence over time. Additionally, reminding yourself of your strengths and focusing on positive self-talk can also boost confidence.
If I can do it, then anyone can do it! 🙂
I have never played on my shyness, but instead, I have always forced myself to do things that I find challenging, to help me overcome my shyness.
Frances x
SmileyRose Ramblings by
Frances Rose Agnes Napper (She/Her) 