Sometimes the only technique that can help you overcome fear or adversity is to charge for it head on. You need to plow right through it, immerse yourself in it and break free from the hold the situation has on you. A few days ago, I did just that.
Now, I’m a shy person when it comes to strangers. Typically, I just stick with the people I know and stay away from others. Sometimes when a stranger is a friend-of-a-friend or a family-friend, I manage to get through introductions and a bit of chit chat. But otherwise, I’m a wall flower. Though last week, an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone presented itself: a family-friend was hosting a wedding and needed someone to help serve appetizers to the 70 guests coming. Imagine my shock and hesitance when I was asked to be that server. My initial reaction: “Walking around a big crowd of strangers, prompting them to eat, all afternoon? Uh, no thanks.” After a moment, however, I realized just how much I didn’t like the fear that struck me. I had been feeling that fear most of my life and a part of me knew that this could be my ticket to overcome it. So you know what I did? I accepted the work.
When the day of the event arrived, I tried hiding my nerves as best I could. But it was hard to stop my hands from shaking the first time I left the kitchen and entered the crowd of unfamiliar faces. I was already way out of my comfort zone at that point, but I didn’t give in. Instead, I took a deep breath and stepped over to the first group of people I saw. They happily accepted the food I offered. As did each of the other strangers I walked up to. With each trip in and out of the kitchen, I became more confident. I started cracking a couple jokes with some people, offering explanations about the dishes I held, easily answering questions they had, commenting on the beautiful bridesmaid dresses and even told a guy how awesome the quadcopter he brought was. Additionally, not only did I get to meet and congratulate the bride and groom, but I also made friends with my co-server who happened to be entering college in the same program as I am taking.
Many good things came from that day. I proved to myself that I was able to step out of my comfort zone and effectively work, make a new friend and adapt the situation around me. I was surprised how I was able to quickly get used to, and warm up to, the crowd of strangers. If I had not taken this opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, I never would have realized that I can approach new people without the need to be shy. I overcame my shyness in those few hours of the event and the confidence I gained through that experience is invaluable.
Anyone can overcome their fears. It’s just a matter of putting in the effort to work past them. I did, and I learned a lot about myself. I think that once in a while, it is important--healthy even--for people to step out of their comfort zones and take a chance. You may not know just how much good you get out of it.
