Growing up, I was defined as the shy girl. I was ostracized at times and it was incredibly difficult for me to make friends. I was made to feel like I was inadequate by social norms. Just because I was minding my own business and did not speak my mind, I was like a sunflower in a room full of roses. Still amazing, yet people did not give me the opportunity to be their friend. They did not get to know me. Instead, they made me feel out of place and like there was something wrong with me. It's hard enough to grow up and compete with the looks of others, the clothes of others, the latest technology. Why do people have to be so hateful? Why do people have to bully others? Why can't we all get along... without the cliques and judgment? Other people often do not believe in you. Is this because they are jealous of you? Maybe. They might not want you to share your talents with the world.
It Is Acceptable To Be A Loner:
Over the years, I have really put in an effort to make friends and I have a handful of loyal ones. Girls especially can be very standoffish and disrespectful. My sister and one of my friends do a lot together but we are not exclusive. We would never make others feel bad for wanting to get to know us. After a while, I just stopped reaching out to people. I have realized that it is better to be alone than to be with the wrong company. If you have to constantly seek out the approval of others, those people are not true friends. A friendship is mutual. Don't find yourself in the position I have been in. I have let people take advantage of me, either because I was too naive or just wanted someone to be friends with. Real friendship shouldn't be earned. It should be natural. Do not be afraid of rejection.
Being A Shy Person Does Not Define Who You Are:
Just as being an extrovert or boisterous person does not define you, being shy does not either. It is just a characteristic. An introverted person is perfectly normal. You are unique and if everyone was the same, that would be quite boring. You have a special purpose in this world. Do not get discouraged by others. We are all stars in a night sky. We shine together. Everyone has something to bring to the table. Being shy is just a label others put on us. How should being an energetic, full-of-life person be deemed better?
Try To Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone But Don't Allow Others To Change You:
It is always a good thing to branch out. Do it on your terms, though. It is harder for a shy person to put themselves out there. Shy people are often overlooked. Just because we do not voice our opinions openly does not mean we don't have them. We are still just as intelligent, creative, observant, and dedicated. It is important to show the world who we are, but we do not have to go overboard about it. Some of us may not want to be buddy-buddy with everyone we meet or feel as if we have to check off a list of things. One idea can change the world. It could be yours.
It Is Okay To Be Fearful:
It is alright to not know how you will find the strength. You are bold and strong. You are smart. You just are unsure of yourself and need encouragement. You might need that boost of confidence that some people may have.That is perfectly normal. You can do whatever you set your mind to. If it takes longer, that is fine. We all do things at different speeds, on different levels. If it helps to write down your goals and thoughts, do so. However, do not let fear dictate your life. You are in control. Pour your heart out in other ways. Send a text. Draw something. So much unsaid can be enough. Words are not everything. Sometimes, in a room full of chaos, there could be no productivity. It is important to drown out the noise and take a breather.
Listening Is Our Forte:
We are amazing listeners. Due to not talking as much, we are not as self-absorbed. So many people have trouble with listening to others because they are so consumed with themselves. You know those people, right? Those people that revert everything back on themselves. Talk about self-absorbed. Just get to know us. Give us that opportunity to share, without feeling judged or on the spot. We are very observant as well. We pick up on our surroundings. We are attuned to social situations; we just might feel uncomfortable talking to our peers.
I used to be ashamed of being shy. It never was a bad thing, though. It shouldn't be. Just like the confident, pretty, talkative cheerleader is not commonly criticized, we shouldn't be. If we are, we should not let it impact us. Everyone has a voice. It is up to us to use it. I encourage you to share your talents with the world, in some way. Join a club, take a risk. Just remember that there is nothing wrong with the down-to-earth shy girl.
