For as long as I can remember, I’ve been on the quieter side. Sure, I can have conversations with close friends and family very easily, but I hate introductions to new people and, most of all, I hate public speaking.

For some people, standing in front of a big group comes naturally, almost as if they were born to do it. Unfortunately, I’m not one of those people. I hate giving presentations in class. I hate calling people on the phone. I hate auditions, try-outs and interviews of any kind. I hate looking lost and having to ask for help.

Simple phone conversations make me nervous. Sometimes, I have to think about what I’m going to say to the person sitting behind the desk when I walk into the doctor’s office. Even little things, like taking too long to put my change in my purse after purchasing something at a store, can make me worry that the people in line behind me will get annoyed.

Growing up, I’ve gotten better at dealing with nerves through my own experiences, but it hasn't gotten any easier. I’m just as nervous for class presentations as I was in elementary school when I was first beginning to talk in front of the class.

I watch other people perform on stage and give presentations in front of audiences, and it honestly amazes me. It also makes me a bit jealous, too. I’ve always secretly wished that I could be the person to introduce myself to others around me in my classes or at parties -- or anywhere, for that matter.

I’m beginning to come to terms with the fact that I’ll never be as outgoing as some people, because I’m starting to realize that that’s OK. I always used to think that I was the only one that was nervous for anything, probably because I was the only one who actually voiced those nerves. Most people around me, in any situation, always seemed so calm and collected and I suppose I was jealous of their ability to appear nonchalant in highly stressful and nerve-racking environments.

I’m well aware that there are several individuals out there with anxiety disorders, as well as those who, like me, might not necessarily have a disorder but still have trouble dealing with their nerves. What I’d like to say to all of you is that I’ve been there and I’m still there sometimes -- but just because we’re not the most outgoing people doesn’t mean that we’re not friendly or kind. It just means that it takes a little more effort to get to know us.

After experiencing many stressful moments, I think I can finally say that I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m an introvert. I’m quiet and I’m proud.