Much of the time, when we experience social anxiety and come to fear interactions, it is because we have not chosen or defined our desired outcome. Or, it is because the desired outcome we've chosen does not serve us. Below are questions we frequently ask ourselves before a social interaction: • How can I get this person to like me? • How can I make sure that they think I'm okay? • How can I get through this without embarrassing myself?
Social anxiety often arises when we lack clarity about what we want from social interactions or when our goals are misaligned with our well-being. People frequently worry about how others perceive them, focusing on gaining approval, avoiding embarrassment, or seeking acceptance instead of defining their own positive outcomes.
In his book "The Solution To Social Anxiety," Aziz Gazipura highlights the importance of shifting our mindset by not just focusing on how to be liked or to avoid awkwardness. Instead, it is crucial to set constructive intentions that truly serve us and foster genuine connections, which can help alleviate social anxiety in various situations.