Dating Shy

Let’s first be clear about one thing, if you’re the shy type when it comes to dating, don’t see this as a character flaw because this shyness stems from various factors, some are personal others are societal and beyond your control, shyness can also originate from your cultural background, innate personality traits and from your past experiences that affects your dating confidence. Feeling shy is perfectly normal, with that said, let’s delve on how you can overcome this for a more fun dating experience and more importantly, to connect with that person that you’re really attracted with. First off, prepare for your date in advance. Just like anything in life, practice makes perfect. Take some time to think about topics of conversation that you're comfortable discussing, such as your hobbies, interests, or recent experiences. Additionally, practice speaking confidently in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend. The more you rehearse, the more natural and relaxed you'll feel when the actual date rolls around. Next up, don’t overthink things, don’t worry about making mistakes, nobody’s perfect. The more you worry about things you’ll do or say that you’ll regret later on, the more you’re going to attract these negative situations. So stay positive, focus on your date and just have fun. Also, if you're feeling nervous during your date, shift your focus away from your own internal dialogue and toward your date. Practice active listening by maintaining eye contact, nodding in agreement, and asking follow-up questions. Not only will this help alleviate your shyness, but it will also demonstrate your genuine interest in getting to know the other person. It’s also important to prepare for your date, make sure you look good and in your best self, go for a more simple yet interestingly casual cool look, this is not a college test, dating is about finding where you are on your date’s life as well as where your date’s life is when it comes to yours. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by shyness during a date, don't hesitate to take a short break to collect your thoughts and regain your composure. Excuse yourself to the restroom, take a few deep breaths, and remind yourself that it's okay to feel nervous. Sometimes, a brief moment of solitude can provide the reset you need to reengage with your date with renewed confidence. At the end of the day, shift your perspective when it comes to shyness, embrace your shyness as a part of who you are, rather than something to be ashamed of or hide. Remember that many people find shyness endearing and relatable, so don't be afraid to let your authentic self shine through.