What are some steps you can take now to aid in overcoming self-consciousness?

Spend Time With Self Confident People

Do not spend your time with other shy people, as we tend to pick up the habits of those we are around. If you want to be more confident, spend time around other people who are confident. You will be able to learn from their ways, and "break out of your shell".

Say Something

This one may sound easy, but for many people it is not. Get in the habit of saying things to people. Have you ever noticed how some people, like sales and retail people, for example, seemingly are able to speak to anyone? This is because they have practiced it for years. Get in the habit of saying hello to people - the teller at the bank, the attendant at the gas station, anyone you encounter. You don't have to have a conversation with them - not at first, anyway. Just quit focusing on what they will think of you, and just make small talk. Say hello, ask how their day has been, things like that. You will start to get more comfortable over time, then you will be able to start saying more.

Focus

You need to pay attention to what you are focusing on during conversations. Many times, shy or self conscious people will focus on the wrong things, such as "Should I say something? What if I say the wrong thing?". Instead, you should be focusing on the quite the opposite, such as what is going on in the conversation, and how you can contribute in some intelligent and useful manner. Just listen to what is being discussed, and if you have something that relates to it in mind, throw it out there. Just be sure it is actually related to the conversation that is taking place, and you will be fine.

Smile

Smile at people. This will help you "break the ice", which will make you and the other person more at ease. It will also ease any discomfort that may be caused, and allow you to be much more friendly with them. There is nothing wrong with a genuine, simple smile. People can be genuinely affected by a simple smile, so don't be afraid to use that sometimes. If you want to, you could even say hello.

I hope this article helps those of you who may be self conscious. It may take a little practice, but in time you will learn to become more comfortable and confident.

Author
Bryan Powell
http://yourpersonalgrowthsite.com/wordpress/