Trying a new way of being everyday!!! 
Today I actually picked up the phone when someone I am shy of called. We were both surprised but pleased. I almost gave her a heart attack she was so surprised!! I even came out of the house and talked to her for a few minutes when she came to pick up my son to drive him to a birthday party.
I detected the surprise in her face but the pleasure and warmth as well!!! I was so afraid, I even froze for a few seconds!!! But it was sooo worth it in terms of improving relationships with acquaintances. I will definitely do the exact same thing again even if they see my shyness and fear because I am tired of hiding and disconnection. Of people feeling I do not care for them or am not interested in them.
Today I returned a friends phone call even though I was afraid of what she would say because it took 24 hours to do. I did it because I am tired of hurting people with my silence and hurting myself
when I loss friends this way. She was perfectly fine and understanding we will have coffee later!!!
FEAR IS SUCH A MASTER AT CREATING ILLUSIONS TIME TO PULL BACK THE CURTAIN AND SEE THE TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Replies
Wow, how true. I just wrote you a message about my fear of going out hiking with strangers, and I\'m still shaking at the thought of it. The memory of fear and social anxiety is such a nasty thing. I\'m really proud of you for making such progress in the short time we met. You are an inspiration to all shy people and to those who have social anxiety. Happy Sunday to you. Oli
I am SO proud of you Ida. I know how big a step this is for you. Congrats. Keep it up honey, you are doing great!
Wow. You are amazing! Fear drives me crazy. I\'m so proud of you Ida! Big hugs and high fives to you!
well done you!my daughter has a fear of picking up the telephone,ever since her dad died.im so glad you have made the first move with your friends,now i hope you will enjoy that coffee!
it\'s true..WHAT do we have to lose?
xo
Hi Ida,
Thanks SO much for writing about these experiences! I am ALWAYS so afraid of rejection which creates even MORE anxiety! Please take great care of yourself and yours! I hope your son is continuing to do well in school! BIG peace to you!
Meg
Way to go, girl!
I know what you mean.I am tired of hiding and disconnecting from people too.Good for you for talking to your friend on the phone!
Thank you for inspiring me Ida. :)
i am so very proud of you! You are on the stage, and curtain is pulled now, and you are delighting the crowd, with your love personality, and beautiful spirit. :)
Encore! :)
I think it is great that you are reaching out to be connected with others and have found the courage to build relationships instead of letting your fear or shyness destroy these gifts!!! I hope you have a tremendous time in this journey to happiness and surrounding your world with loving and caring individuals!! Big hugs and positive strength to you, my friend!!