Sometimes you worry about being rejected or singled out while socializing. This feeling is due to our natural make-up to be known and belong. When you make new friends, join a new group, or express your opinions, you open yourself up to the possibility of being rejected or disliked by others.
The problem is that it can also affect our self-esteem and confidence, leading to feelings of loneliness. It can also cause social anxiety. If you don’t deal with these vulnerabilities they tend to affect your personality and social position with the passage of time. To overcome this fear of rejection, we should build self-confidence, develop social skills and create a cozy environment that is supportive.
Let’s take an example of you going to a party where you don’t know many people. It is difficult for you to approach people you don’t know. Introducing yourself and starting a conversation can be intimidating. Fear of getting cold-shouldered can make you hesitate to mix up or even start a conversation. You feel hesitant in sharing your thoughts freely for fear of being judged. There is nothing odd here as this fear can affect people of all ages and is visible in various social settings, such as school, work, or online.
It’s important to remember that social vulnerability is something that we all have faced. You become more vulnerable if you put up a false front. Being open to rejection can actually lead to meaningful relationships. When interacting with others, it is helpful to consider how comfortable and open we ourselves are in merging with the new environment. Here are some important things to consider to speed up the process.
Know what makes you feel safe and comfortable in social situations. Be aware of your own emotions and reactions and avoid over-relations when interacting with others.
It is better to take small steps. If things look difficult, start with small doings. As you become more confident, you become more assured of yourself in increasingly difficult social situations. Build relationships with people you trust and feel comfortable with. Initially avoid the company of those you find very difficult to share your thoughts and feelings.
Being a good listener is just as important as any narration. Develop active listening skills to understand and empathize with others. Also, learn to pick up nonverbal clues. You will have a better understanding of a situation. Set healthy boundaries to protect your emotions. Know your comfort zone and demand others to respect those boundaries.
You should learn to look after yourself in the same manner the way you take care of others. You are your best friend so prioritize self-care. You will be able to manage stress and maintain emotional resilience. Take positive criticism as useful feedback and remain open as far as possible. The extent of vulnerability is your choice, and you shouldn’t feel obliged to share more than you’re comfortable with. It will help you avoid undue social pressure. Stay assertive and spend time respecting your boundaries and building confidence in social situations. You will be at ease as you get acquainted with the people and surroundings.
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