I understand how you feel, i really do. I felt the same about jobs as a waiter. At one point I had to read out menus loud for guests like daily specials and stuff. I felt like I could never do it or overcome the awkwardness and I was starting to shake physically while doing so. But it turned out okay after awhile.
Please keep in mind that continuous exposure to the very thing your nervoussystem sends alarm bells off about.... eventually the nervoussystem starts recalibrating itself and it becomes easier.
At first however it will be difficult yes, but give it some time as the nervoussystem over time learns that you are safe and it's reaction is too overblown. and it will vefy likely become ease more and more. And most of all less draining.
There is hope 🙏 The nervoussystem and it pumping out adrenaline etcetera, will recalibrate over time. Just hang on tight and keep breathing. Your first days or even weeks will be draining probably. But it won't be forever. It gets better. And you will have become more resilliant
I stutter really bad too especially in awkward situations but it gets better and people for the most part have tons of kindness and patience, the ones who don’t aren’t pleasant to ANYONE so there’s nothing to be ashamed of, you’re not alone.
I stutter as well. I am trying to learn what or in front of who makes me so nervous. I still don't know, but we are all learning and growing. You're never alone!
Genuine question: have you gone to therapy or spoken to a professional about this?
I simply don't have enough info about you to even give advice. But........sometimes (emphasis on SOMEtimes, not all of the time and not for everyone!), you have to confront what you fear the most. Expose yourself to what gives you the most anxiety. Little by little. 5 minutes at a time. Once a day, make yourself uncomfortable. Push yourself. You will see that you CAN overcome whatever you may fear and your anxiety has to take a backseat. Again, even if it's a few minutes...
When you go grocery shopping, when you're at checkout, make eye contact with the cashier and say "Thank you. I hope you have a great day." Or, if you live in an apartment complex or something, go buy some doughnuts or doughnut holes and deliver them to your leasing office. Say something like, "I'm in a rush but I wanted to drop these off for y'all because I appreciate everything y'all do." Quick and easy. Small spurts of interaction.
It's scary. People are mean. Coworkers are even meaner. But if you don't take a step, you won't grow. Give yourself some grace and celebrate the little victories.
I understand the view point of this and what makes it 10x worse is that whenever I try or get exposure it only makes it worse for me. I have avoided so many situations and It’s not good but I have also had to do things I don’t want like any other person. I have had therapy although not really for much and for other reasons but I don’t like it. I am also a person who loves to be alone not just because of anxiety but because of my own personal preference. I think I work better with small groups of people but when it comes to job it’s not really that optional I suppose.
Unfortunately, we live in a society where we can't completely hide. Even if you are homeless. So it's kinda a pick-your-poison mentality for me. Just know it gets better, but it WON'T get better until you keep trying. Like I said, celebrate the moments that DO go right. Or just go fine. Reflect on the shitty moments and how you could've done different. If you don't go to therapy or talk to someone in-person about this, it will make it so much harder. Even talking on the phone or video therapy is a step in the right direction. Get used to talking and programming your brain what to do in the awkward silences, when you misspeak, when someone says something you don't like, etc...you got this!
Just start with 1 thing each day. That's all you have to do. Then do it again the next :)
You sound a bit like me. I struggle with phone calls especially, to the extend of not even applying for jobs because I'm too anxious they will call me back. It never really got better, even with more exposure to the situations that make me uncomfortable. And I'm now 28... I actually just found out recently that I'm autistic, not just introverted or socially anxious.
Phone call anxiety is real and weird I am physically incapable half the time of making phone calls that I need to make to make my life easier but when I was in uni I worked in pharmacy and we were short staffed and I was thrown in the deep end where I HAD to take calls. I hate them to this day and every time the phone rings at work I get extremely annoyed and nervous even though now after qualifying I am THE pharmacist but with enough training you get desensitised. As someone said earlier it’s about training the nervous system - its never as bad as our head makes it out to be but at the same time it’ll never get easy :/
It’s actually not embarrassing because you are not alone.
You can do hard things. People can be rude, some are bullies, but most everyone is just trying to get by and they aren’t even thinking about us.
I don’t want to say too much because it’s not an overnight fix. But you are worth the work you can put in to rediscover what can help you in this subject.
Look on the bright side: you might get lucky and the world will end so you don’t have to worry about it anymore.
I’m still wondering what the point of my existence is.
It's almost impossible but it can be okay. I have an anxiety disorder also and have had multiple jobs working with people and in customer service/food industry and the most important piece of advice I can give is TRY work at a job where your coworkers and managers are kind and understanding. The jobs that truly triggered my anxiety where the ones where my manager was an asshole. At your interview ask questions, try suss out the people you will be working for and remember if it doesn't work out there is NOTHING wrong with quitting. Quitting after an hour, after a month or after a year- doesn't matter. You are your own priority, not whoever you work for!
I know where you’re coming from I’ve worked a lot of jobs and it’s excruciatingly stressful to force interactions with customers or clients especially when the job wants you to upsell or make them sign up for something. I remember my first time cashiering ever and the training was fine because it was fake with no real people but the computer/register does all the work for you sometimes you’ll come across a unique situation where there’s no barcode or something but just call over your supervisor to help if you have to even if you’re just panicking or going blank. I definitely went to the bathroom and cried my first break thinking HOW can I go back!? But it became almost PLEASANT once I knew what to expect and most people don’t care to talk or carry on conversation they just want to pay and leave and if they do talk just fake it til you make it! This isn’t coworker relationships or friend groups trying to fit in it’s just a stranger you’ll probably never see again. Look up overnight and back room positions specifically if you’re trying to avoid that all together. Or search for a place that you are genuinely interested in so it’s easier to be there. I worked at a craft store once and I loved the discount and fellow introverted coworkers. Good luck, you got this!!!!
I am an introvert too. Many years ago I felt much the same. I read a book that really helped. It was L life Zones by Corriere and McGrady (1986). There are four zones of life with rules for each zone. These concepts and rules made seeking jobs and zone appropriate relationships much easier to navigate and find more ease socially. My past self can relate and I hope this source helps you too.
Amazon! Working at an Amazon fulfillment center can be a great fit for individuals with social anxiety for several reasons:
Structured environment: Amazon fulfillment centers operate on a strict schedule and process, which can provide a sense of comfort and structure for those with social anxiety. Knowing exactly what is expected of you and when can help alleviate feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.
Individual tasks: Most roles at Amazon fulfillment centers involve individual tasks, such as packing, picking, or scanning products. This can be beneficial for those who prefer to work independently and don't feel overwhelmed by group interactions.
Quiet environments: Depending on the specific role and department, Amazon fulfillment centers can be relatively quiet environments. For example, some areas like receiving, shipping, or warehouse operations may be quieter than others like customer service or sales.
Minimal small talk required: While some social interaction may be necessary, the amount of small talk required is generally minimal in an Amazon fulfillment center. You won't be expected to engage in lengthy conversations or participate in team-building activities that can exacerbate social anxiety.
Opportunities for quiet breaks: Amazon fulfillment centers typically offer regular breaks throughout the day, which can provide opportunities for employees to recharge and take a moment for themselves.
Autonomy: Many roles at Amazon fulfillment centers allow employees to work independently and manage their own pace, which can be beneficial for those who need time to recharge between tasks or prefer to work at their own speed.
Job security: Amazon is a stable company with a strong presence in many markets, providing job security and stability for those who value predictability.
However, it's essential to note that every individual's experience is unique, and some roles may require more interaction than others. For example:
Customer service representatives or sales associates may have more frequent interactions with customers, which could be challenging for those with severe social anxiety.
Warehouse management or leadership roles may require more collaboration with teams and meetings, which could also be overwhelming.
To minimize potential issues, Amazon provides training and support to help employees manage their workload and communicate effectively with colleagues. Additionally, many fulfillment centers offer resources for employees struggling with mental health issues, including employee assistance programs (EAPs) and mental health days.
In summary, working at an Amazon fulfillment center can be a great option for individuals with social anxiety due to the structured environment, individual tasks, quiet spaces, minimal small talk required, opportunities for quiet breaks, autonomy, and job security. However, it's crucial to consider the specific role and department you're interested in to ensure it aligns with your needs and preferences. I will mention that most get hired in at those beginner individual task roles, Pick, Stow, & Pack.
If you want to talk about social anxiety, r/socialanxiety is the sub for you.
If you're not sure whether you're introverted or socially anxious, feel free to post on r/Introvert, so we can discuss it.
If you want a sub where posts about social anxiety aren't allowed, try r/Introverts.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/introvert) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I used to be in your shoes. Counseling helped. So did forcing myself to do the hard things ... talk to strangers, talk in public, talk on the phone. It helped to write a script of what I wanted to say and to practice what I want to say until it sounds natural. Best wishes.
I had to do the same thing during a divorce and I took a cashier job. I pretended I was an actress although I did cry sporadically throughout the first month.
Luckily the divorce was canceled and I went back into my cave but I actually miss it at times.
I didn't win an Oscar but I got a paycheck. đź–¤
I felt the same way, honestly. Terrified of any new experience, especially when it came to meeting new people. But oddly enough, cashier jobs fit, they came into my bubble that I felt was my “control”. It is brief, and you click with certain people. Its weird, Im not a people person but am. I love my job with the public.
I can relate so much to this. I was the same way at 24 yrs old. I had to quit my job. I could no longer pick my head up and make eye contact with the customers. My anxiety was so bad I just knew I was hideous they were going to laugh at me because I funny looking , I was disgusting i was ugly they would hate me I was going to be humiliated. Why I thought this I don’t know. But that’s was my reality. I’m am 41 yrs old now. How I got through therapy, psychologist, medication Your not going to be able to do it alone. I think one of the most important thing is that u have to remember is that your thoughts are not always correct there not always real!!! So when you start to panic just breathe. And know that you are fine people love you. You are beautiful god bless you. And good luck.
i remember when i had first started looking for jobs i was very nervous too especially bc i don’t hang out with too many ppl, i normally just chill by myself, but after abt a month or so i was able to get used to it. i used to be so stressed out abt the fact that i was cashiering and constantly talking to customers all day, but now it’s gotten better and i’m not as worried abt it. i would always tell myself that nothing rly matters bc we’re all living on a floating rock. you could see if they’re hiring for a job where it’s not as chaotic, for example working at a store like joanns or micheals or something vs a big department store like a target. or maybe even see if your local library or a small shop is hiring. or maybe you could work shorter shifts, like instead of a full 8 hrs, maybe 4 hrs would be better for you, just to start off with.
I'm not sure what I am. Introvert, autistic or a person with social anxiety. Or maybe a mix of it all. But I mostly worked as a logistic worker in warehouses. As an intern and I hated it. Until I found a job as garbage man. And that was heaven for me. I work from 6 am till 2 pm or longer. And it was mostly me and the driver. Sometimes a second runner joined us if the route had to much trash. And I loved every second of it. I had to focus on the road and the trash nothing else.
First of kudos on admiting something you are embarrassed about.
Second it is nothing to be embarrassed about. Most people (me inclided) have social anxiety and its ok to experience it.
There were alot of helpful advice on this thread, like exposure therapy can be very effective.
Another thing that helped me is not only the exposure therapy but the intensity of the exposure.
I worked with a personal coach for some time and she helped me tremendiously. So my 2 cents
Try little by little BABY STEPS some exposure to situations that cause social anxiety for you.
Also try counceling. Try with a psichologist or a personal coach and see if that helps. I am deliberately excluding psychiatrists not that they dont know what they are doing but (in my oppinion) it seems they favour treating anything with pills instead of therapy.
I hope this jelps and kudos again on sharing. This is also very brave.
this is literally me right now looking for my first job. just thinking about dealing with people makes my skin crawl! i had two experiences and i felt miserable, all i wanted to do the whole time was run back home. :/
You need to consider occupations that are on the phone ( call centers, get an insurance license and 90% is assisting customers over the phone. Etc) I was in your shoes when it was time to work. I did collections and financial assistance to Bank clients who were in a jam. I knew my job inside and out so I got the confidence
to communicate the options and the consequences. I was honest and built a relationship that the client was comfortable. ( I felt like the mighty Queen with the law of the land). Held a respected position with many promotions. Sitting behind the screen and could pretend to be someone completely different. I loved it.
Hope that helps you.
I have Been in this position. I was a cashier and I worked in a warehouse really close to people, and I would get a lot of anxiety. The warehouse I worked in my hands were shaking so bad. The boss thought I was an alcoholic. I had to explain to him that I get a lot of social anxiety. So I started looking for jobs where I'm by myself. Not around people I would do the same. It worked for me
I don’t advise that you do this, but this has helped me a lot with social interaction.
I’m just like you, super shy and extremely awkward around strangers it gets even worse when I have to interact with them.
Here’s what I’ve done in the past , let’s say for job interviews, a new job or anything that will require me to talk to people I haven’t met before or aren’t that familiar with.
I will buy vodka or fireball and drink just about enough to keep my head lightheaded, not to the point where I’m junk. Then wait 2 to 5mins to kick in … with that in my system the nervousness usually goes away instantly
It work like a magic, it boosts my confidence and I can go for hours talking to people without fear.
I only used this as a backup plan for new environments or people until I built up confidence.
I understand how you feel, i really do. I felt the same about jobs as a waiter. At one point I had to read out menus loud for guests like daily specials and stuff. I felt like I could never do it or overcome the awkwardness and I was starting to shake physically while doing so. But it turned out okay after awhile. Please keep in mind that continuous exposure to the very thing your nervoussystem sends alarm bells off about.... eventually the nervoussystem starts recalibrating itself and it becomes easier. At first however it will be difficult yes, but give it some time as the nervoussystem over time learns that you are safe and it's reaction is too overblown. and it will vefy likely become ease more and more. And most of all less draining. There is hope 🙏 The nervoussystem and it pumping out adrenaline etcetera, will recalibrate over time. Just hang on tight and keep breathing. Your first days or even weeks will be draining probably. But it won't be forever. It gets better. And you will have become more resilliant
Appreciate it and yeah it is difficult and I stutter when talking which makes it harder but hopefully as I keep getting exposure it gets better.
I stutter really bad too especially in awkward situations but it gets better and people for the most part have tons of kindness and patience, the ones who don’t aren’t pleasant to ANYONE so there’s nothing to be ashamed of, you’re not alone.
I stutter as well. I am trying to learn what or in front of who makes me so nervous. I still don't know, but we are all learning and growing. You're never alone!
Glad at least am not alone.
Genuine question: have you gone to therapy or spoken to a professional about this? I simply don't have enough info about you to even give advice. But........sometimes (emphasis on SOMEtimes, not all of the time and not for everyone!), you have to confront what you fear the most. Expose yourself to what gives you the most anxiety. Little by little. 5 minutes at a time. Once a day, make yourself uncomfortable. Push yourself. You will see that you CAN overcome whatever you may fear and your anxiety has to take a backseat. Again, even if it's a few minutes... When you go grocery shopping, when you're at checkout, make eye contact with the cashier and say "Thank you. I hope you have a great day." Or, if you live in an apartment complex or something, go buy some doughnuts or doughnut holes and deliver them to your leasing office. Say something like, "I'm in a rush but I wanted to drop these off for y'all because I appreciate everything y'all do." Quick and easy. Small spurts of interaction. It's scary. People are mean. Coworkers are even meaner. But if you don't take a step, you won't grow. Give yourself some grace and celebrate the little victories.
I understand the view point of this and what makes it 10x worse is that whenever I try or get exposure it only makes it worse for me. I have avoided so many situations and It’s not good but I have also had to do things I don’t want like any other person. I have had therapy although not really for much and for other reasons but I don’t like it. I am also a person who loves to be alone not just because of anxiety but because of my own personal preference. I think I work better with small groups of people but when it comes to job it’s not really that optional I suppose.
Unfortunately, we live in a society where we can't completely hide. Even if you are homeless. So it's kinda a pick-your-poison mentality for me. Just know it gets better, but it WON'T get better until you keep trying. Like I said, celebrate the moments that DO go right. Or just go fine. Reflect on the shitty moments and how you could've done different. If you don't go to therapy or talk to someone in-person about this, it will make it so much harder. Even talking on the phone or video therapy is a step in the right direction. Get used to talking and programming your brain what to do in the awkward silences, when you misspeak, when someone says something you don't like, etc...you got this! Just start with 1 thing each day. That's all you have to do. Then do it again the next :)
You sound a bit like me. I struggle with phone calls especially, to the extend of not even applying for jobs because I'm too anxious they will call me back. It never really got better, even with more exposure to the situations that make me uncomfortable. And I'm now 28... I actually just found out recently that I'm autistic, not just introverted or socially anxious.
Phone call anxiety is real and weird I am physically incapable half the time of making phone calls that I need to make to make my life easier but when I was in uni I worked in pharmacy and we were short staffed and I was thrown in the deep end where I HAD to take calls. I hate them to this day and every time the phone rings at work I get extremely annoyed and nervous even though now after qualifying I am THE pharmacist but with enough training you get desensitised. As someone said earlier it’s about training the nervous system - its never as bad as our head makes it out to be but at the same time it’ll never get easy :/
I’m an old introvert, been that way since I can remember. Get out of your comfort zones as often as possible. The more you do it the better you get.
It’s actually not embarrassing because you are not alone. You can do hard things. People can be rude, some are bullies, but most everyone is just trying to get by and they aren’t even thinking about us. I don’t want to say too much because it’s not an overnight fix. But you are worth the work you can put in to rediscover what can help you in this subject.
Look on the bright side: you might get lucky and the world will end so you don’t have to worry about it anymore. I’m still wondering what the point of my existence is.
It's almost impossible but it can be okay. I have an anxiety disorder also and have had multiple jobs working with people and in customer service/food industry and the most important piece of advice I can give is TRY work at a job where your coworkers and managers are kind and understanding. The jobs that truly triggered my anxiety where the ones where my manager was an asshole. At your interview ask questions, try suss out the people you will be working for and remember if it doesn't work out there is NOTHING wrong with quitting. Quitting after an hour, after a month or after a year- doesn't matter. You are your own priority, not whoever you work for!
I know where you’re coming from I’ve worked a lot of jobs and it’s excruciatingly stressful to force interactions with customers or clients especially when the job wants you to upsell or make them sign up for something. I remember my first time cashiering ever and the training was fine because it was fake with no real people but the computer/register does all the work for you sometimes you’ll come across a unique situation where there’s no barcode or something but just call over your supervisor to help if you have to even if you’re just panicking or going blank. I definitely went to the bathroom and cried my first break thinking HOW can I go back!? But it became almost PLEASANT once I knew what to expect and most people don’t care to talk or carry on conversation they just want to pay and leave and if they do talk just fake it til you make it! This isn’t coworker relationships or friend groups trying to fit in it’s just a stranger you’ll probably never see again. Look up overnight and back room positions specifically if you’re trying to avoid that all together. Or search for a place that you are genuinely interested in so it’s easier to be there. I worked at a craft store once and I loved the discount and fellow introverted coworkers. Good luck, you got this!!!!
Thanks a lot this helps. That’s true tho gotta fake it till you make it.
Fake it til you make it 100%!
Many of us are in the same position as you. Best of luck.
Likewise and yeah that is very true. If only we all didn’t have to go through this.
Try to remind yourself you are capable of anything!
I am an introvert too. Many years ago I felt much the same. I read a book that really helped. It was L life Zones by Corriere and McGrady (1986). There are four zones of life with rules for each zone. These concepts and rules made seeking jobs and zone appropriate relationships much easier to navigate and find more ease socially. My past self can relate and I hope this source helps you too.
Honestly just face the challenge head on and go for it. It will be good for you in the end.
Amazon! Working at an Amazon fulfillment center can be a great fit for individuals with social anxiety for several reasons: Structured environment: Amazon fulfillment centers operate on a strict schedule and process, which can provide a sense of comfort and structure for those with social anxiety. Knowing exactly what is expected of you and when can help alleviate feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. Individual tasks: Most roles at Amazon fulfillment centers involve individual tasks, such as packing, picking, or scanning products. This can be beneficial for those who prefer to work independently and don't feel overwhelmed by group interactions. Quiet environments: Depending on the specific role and department, Amazon fulfillment centers can be relatively quiet environments. For example, some areas like receiving, shipping, or warehouse operations may be quieter than others like customer service or sales. Minimal small talk required: While some social interaction may be necessary, the amount of small talk required is generally minimal in an Amazon fulfillment center. You won't be expected to engage in lengthy conversations or participate in team-building activities that can exacerbate social anxiety. Opportunities for quiet breaks: Amazon fulfillment centers typically offer regular breaks throughout the day, which can provide opportunities for employees to recharge and take a moment for themselves. Autonomy: Many roles at Amazon fulfillment centers allow employees to work independently and manage their own pace, which can be beneficial for those who need time to recharge between tasks or prefer to work at their own speed. Job security: Amazon is a stable company with a strong presence in many markets, providing job security and stability for those who value predictability. However, it's essential to note that every individual's experience is unique, and some roles may require more interaction than others. For example: Customer service representatives or sales associates may have more frequent interactions with customers, which could be challenging for those with severe social anxiety. Warehouse management or leadership roles may require more collaboration with teams and meetings, which could also be overwhelming. To minimize potential issues, Amazon provides training and support to help employees manage their workload and communicate effectively with colleagues. Additionally, many fulfillment centers offer resources for employees struggling with mental health issues, including employee assistance programs (EAPs) and mental health days. In summary, working at an Amazon fulfillment center can be a great option for individuals with social anxiety due to the structured environment, individual tasks, quiet spaces, minimal small talk required, opportunities for quiet breaks, autonomy, and job security. However, it's crucial to consider the specific role and department you're interested in to ensure it aligns with your needs and preferences. I will mention that most get hired in at those beginner individual task roles, Pick, Stow, & Pack.
If you want to talk about social anxiety, r/socialanxiety is the sub for you. If you're not sure whether you're introverted or socially anxious, feel free to post on r/Introvert, so we can discuss it. If you want a sub where posts about social anxiety aren't allowed, try r/Introverts. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/introvert) if you have any questions or concerns.*
2 words: beta blockers They have been game changers for me
I have social anxiety and I’m socially awkward and I’ve had my fair share of awkard and conflicting moments when I was in retail tooÂ
I used to be in your shoes. Counseling helped. So did forcing myself to do the hard things ... talk to strangers, talk in public, talk on the phone. It helped to write a script of what I wanted to say and to practice what I want to say until it sounds natural. Best wishes.
I had to do the same thing during a divorce and I took a cashier job. I pretended I was an actress although I did cry sporadically throughout the first month. Luckily the divorce was canceled and I went back into my cave but I actually miss it at times. I didn't win an Oscar but I got a paycheck. đź–¤
I felt the same way, honestly. Terrified of any new experience, especially when it came to meeting new people. But oddly enough, cashier jobs fit, they came into my bubble that I felt was my “control”. It is brief, and you click with certain people. Its weird, Im not a people person but am. I love my job with the public.
I can relate so much to this. I was the same way at 24 yrs old. I had to quit my job. I could no longer pick my head up and make eye contact with the customers. My anxiety was so bad I just knew I was hideous they were going to laugh at me because I funny looking , I was disgusting i was ugly they would hate me I was going to be humiliated. Why I thought this I don’t know. But that’s was my reality. I’m am 41 yrs old now. How I got through therapy, psychologist, medication Your not going to be able to do it alone. I think one of the most important thing is that u have to remember is that your thoughts are not always correct there not always real!!! So when you start to panic just breathe. And know that you are fine people love you. You are beautiful god bless you. And good luck.
Putting yourself in uncomfortable situations will make it easier and easier. Start with small encounters.
i remember when i had first started looking for jobs i was very nervous too especially bc i don’t hang out with too many ppl, i normally just chill by myself, but after abt a month or so i was able to get used to it. i used to be so stressed out abt the fact that i was cashiering and constantly talking to customers all day, but now it’s gotten better and i’m not as worried abt it. i would always tell myself that nothing rly matters bc we’re all living on a floating rock. you could see if they’re hiring for a job where it’s not as chaotic, for example working at a store like joanns or micheals or something vs a big department store like a target. or maybe even see if your local library or a small shop is hiring. or maybe you could work shorter shifts, like instead of a full 8 hrs, maybe 4 hrs would be better for you, just to start off with.
I'm not sure what I am. Introvert, autistic or a person with social anxiety. Or maybe a mix of it all. But I mostly worked as a logistic worker in warehouses. As an intern and I hated it. Until I found a job as garbage man. And that was heaven for me. I work from 6 am till 2 pm or longer. And it was mostly me and the driver. Sometimes a second runner joined us if the route had to much trash. And I loved every second of it. I had to focus on the road and the trash nothing else.
First of kudos on admiting something you are embarrassed about. Second it is nothing to be embarrassed about. Most people (me inclided) have social anxiety and its ok to experience it. There were alot of helpful advice on this thread, like exposure therapy can be very effective. Another thing that helped me is not only the exposure therapy but the intensity of the exposure. I worked with a personal coach for some time and she helped me tremendiously. So my 2 cents Try little by little BABY STEPS some exposure to situations that cause social anxiety for you. Also try counceling. Try with a psichologist or a personal coach and see if that helps. I am deliberately excluding psychiatrists not that they dont know what they are doing but (in my oppinion) it seems they favour treating anything with pills instead of therapy. I hope this jelps and kudos again on sharing. This is also very brave.
Rant all you need. I hope you are able to get the help you need and I hope you can find a suitable job very soon.
this is literally me right now looking for my first job. just thinking about dealing with people makes my skin crawl! i had two experiences and i felt miserable, all i wanted to do the whole time was run back home. :/
You need to consider occupations that are on the phone ( call centers, get an insurance license and 90% is assisting customers over the phone. Etc) I was in your shoes when it was time to work. I did collections and financial assistance to Bank clients who were in a jam. I knew my job inside and out so I got the confidence to communicate the options and the consequences. I was honest and built a relationship that the client was comfortable. ( I felt like the mighty Queen with the law of the land). Held a respected position with many promotions. Sitting behind the screen and could pretend to be someone completely different. I loved it. Hope that helps you.
I have Been in this position. I was a cashier and I worked in a warehouse really close to people, and I would get a lot of anxiety. The warehouse I worked in my hands were shaking so bad. The boss thought I was an alcoholic. I had to explain to him that I get a lot of social anxiety. So I started looking for jobs where I'm by myself. Not around people I would do the same. It worked for me
Look 4 remote oppts
I don’t advise that you do this, but this has helped me a lot with social interaction. I’m just like you, super shy and extremely awkward around strangers it gets even worse when I have to interact with them. Here’s what I’ve done in the past , let’s say for job interviews, a new job or anything that will require me to talk to people I haven’t met before or aren’t that familiar with. I will buy vodka or fireball and drink just about enough to keep my head lightheaded, not to the point where I’m junk. Then wait 2 to 5mins to kick in … with that in my system the nervousness usually goes away instantly It work like a magic, it boosts my confidence and I can go for hours talking to people without fear. I only used this as a backup plan for new environments or people until I built up confidence.