This is the first of a series of guest posts on Approach Anxiety. Be sure to let me know which one you like best!
Overcoming Approach Anxiety in Five Simple Steps
Most of us know what it feels like to feel apprehensive when speaking to someone we are attracted to, however, for some of us, this fear can be paralyzing and gaining the confidence to speak to an attractive member of the opposite sex can seem like an impossible challenge.
This kind of fear is a form of social anxiety, which is known as Approach Anxiety, and it is more common than you might think. However, approach anxiety is something that can be overcome; here are some tips on how to banish your fear of approaching the opposite sex.
Step One: Overcome your fear of Rejection
No one wants to be rejected so everyone tries their hardest to avoid situations where they might face rejection; this includes approaching the opposite sex. The answer to this problem is simple: Build up your confidence. If a person has confidence then they’ll feel like they can do anything. If they get rejected, then they’ll find the confidence they need to pick themselves up, and move on.
Step Two: Start Small
Taking small steps is an excellent way to help boost self-confidence. Begin by approaching people and ask them what the time is or ask for directions somewhere. These interactions are small but important steps and will gradually help to boost confidence.
Step Three: Know what to Say
Another common problem that stops a person talking to someone they are attracted to is not knowing what to say. This can be avoided by either finding out as much as you can about the person you want to approach and learning the things they like, or by talking about subjects that you are well versed in so that you’ll be comfortable with the conversation.
Step Four: Let go of the outcome
One major factor that stops people approaching someone of the opposite sex is because they are frightened of the outcome. They are scared of making a fool of themselves or making the wrong impressive. Let go of all of these feelings and stop worrying about all of the possible outcomes; picture yourself making a great impression and creating sparkling conversation
Step Five: Take Action
Approach anxiety leaves people feeling unable to approach an attractive member of the opposite sex; the more they avoid approaching people, the worse the anxiety becomes. This is why it is crucial to take action. Don’t find ways of trying to avoid social interactions, grab every opportunity to go out and talk to somebody.
*Impressive to Impression
Step Four: Let go of the outcome
One major factor that stops people approaching someone of the opposite sex is because they are frightened of the outcome. They are scared of making a fool of themselves or making the wrong *impressive. Let go of all of these feelings and stop worrying about all of the possible outcomes; picture yourself making a great impression and creating sparkling conversation