For many of us, growing up shy was probably one of the most memorable times of our coming of age. Any shy person can relate to the fear that runs through their mind whenever they are asked to approach someone new. If you're reading this, you'll probably find these struggles funny. But, if you're like me you'll probably silently laugh so you don't get the awkward stares from the stranger next to you wondering if something is wrong. If you were among the extroverts, still read along to see what It was like for us quiet folks. For some of us, we may look back on these years and reminisce on just how much we have grown and still have to go.
1. You begin to answer a question in class and then someone goes, "But, I can't even hear her."
2. You've basically become used to people asking you questions like: Don't you ever smile? Why are so quiet? Why do you look so angry? Is everything OK?
3.You get super nervous when your teacher goes, "If no one raises their hand I am going to have to pick on someone."
4. During every single parent teacher conference growing up, "Your daughter is very well behaved and intelligent but she should participate more in class."
5. Your headphones are basically your escape, and a reason not to interact with others.
6. When the person you would normally partner up with is absent, so you have to pair up with someone else.
7. "Judy, can you read the next paragraph to the class"
8. Fearing those awkward ice breakers at the beginning of every school year where your teacher asks you to tell the class about yourself.
9. Presentations are basically the most fearful things in the world and you'd rather not. So you offer to hold the poster to avoid speaking.
10. When people sing "Happy Birthday" to you and you don't know what to do with yourself so your face looks something like this.
11. Realizing that at least one or two of these struggles are somewhat still relevant to your life but your content with being who you are.
Being shy taught me a lot growing up. From my experience, it was always that there was a lack of confidence when it came to interactions shared with others; a fear of not being this really awesome and amazing person we know we can be, yet struggle to be because of fear of rejection or failure.
Being shy may present itself with a number of struggles, but it should not be treated as a defect. Shy people can be the most beautiful flowers when they are given the chance to bloom. They are the ones who are always noticing those around them, yet rarely getting noticed. The one's who observe and listen more than they speak and who are rarely bored alone. These are the flowers that though they may hide and bury themselves in corners, shine brightly in their own way. This alone, is not a defect but a sign of beauty.
