One of the most common things that I hear from people is, "you're so shy! I can't believe you go out to concerts all the time and meet celebrities!" I take this as a compliment. This is because, when I was younger (and even still sometimes to this day), the idea of going and socializing completely freaks me out. The idea of having to do any form of public speaking or having any kind of attention on me definitely is something that I take into consideration when deciding whether or not to go out and do something. However, lately I have been trying to change that.

I have always been the "shy" person in school. Growing up, my ideal day in school would be one where I would go unnoticed. I liked sitting in the back of the class and the idea of a teacher calling on me or making me present something stressed me out completely. If my friends wanted to go somewhere it had to be somewhere that was familiar to me and where I felt comfortable or it would definitely be an anxiety-filled time for me.

Now, as a senior in college, I am still extremely shy, and still freak out at the slightest idea that I might have to speak in front of a class. However, instead of being scared to go somewhere new with my friends, I get excited. Instead of saying no to leaving my room and doing something and not changing my mind, I am more open to doing things.

I have a few things to thank for my new "less shy" lifestyle. I have now surrounded myself with a group of friends who don't pressure me at all to do anything I'm uncomfortable with. Without that pressure, I am more willing to consider things. When I'm home from school, I am friends with people who respect my decisions and won't judge me for not wanting to do something, which once again relieves a lot of pressure.

Another big thing to thank is music, specifically live music in the form of concerts. I have found my happy place. I have finally found a crowded room that I am comfortable in. I can completely be myself and have a good time without the fear of being judged because a majority of the crowd is in the same position as me. We all just want to have a good time.

I am so glad that I have found ways to become a little less shy in a comfortable way. It is definitely okay to still be a bit of an introvert and to get anxious about public speaking, but I am glad I have found more ways to socialize that I can enjoy without any trouble.