Anxiety is a very serious thing, it interferes with even the most basic everyday actions and doing things out of your everyday schedule can be even harder. However, it's also exciting to finally overcome something that was holding you back for such a long time. Here are just a few small things that are a big step for people with anxiety.
1. Eating around people you've never met before.
Usually it took most of your energy to eat a whole meal at the table with your family watching you, but finally mastering eating around strangers is definitely something to be celebrated.
2. Meeting new people at college orientation and at least smiling at them.
Yes, college is the time to meet new people, even though it can be difficult. Good thing everybody else is going through the same thing.
3. Ordering food over the phone instead of through the company's website.
Because pizza is definitely worth it.
4. Asking the store employee for a dressing room to try on clothes.
Which ended up being the best thing you ever did because that outfit looks fantastic.
5. Finally answering a question in class.
Being smart is a great thing, but sharing that knowledge with everyone else is a big step for someone with anxiety.
6. Going out with friends.
Being in public with people can be hard for a lot of different reasons such as being around a lot of strangers and having to communicate with people outside your usual circle.
7. Confronting someone.
Standing up for yourself can be hard, but it's so worth it once you do.
8. Putting on dramatic makeup and going in public.
Even if you're basically a pro, it definitely takes a big step to put on a full face to show the world.
9. Accept a compliment instead of ignoring the person.
Accepting compliments are not easy, but when you finally do, you will have a lot more confidence in yourself.
10. Being the first one to turn in a test.
Tests are terrible, school is long, and being in front of a large group of classmates can be stressful. Being the first one to turn in a test adds a lot of pressure. Doing this shows that you are confident in your work and maybe your classmates think you're really smart now.
11. Ordering your own Chipotle for the first time.
Let's face it, Chipotle is delicious. But the store is loud, they have a lot of options and that can be overwhelming. I had to memorize their entire menu from online before I could order from there for the first time.