I’m shy, really really shy.
I say that in front of my friends and they laugh at me. However the thought of walking into a room of people I don’t know scares me. Add to that the things I want to do include joining a running group (I can barely run right now but I’m working on it) and go to an event such as fitbloggin’ (I’m not exactly fit right now and my blog is just a baby), well that makes me cringe in terror. My biggest fear is standing on the sidelines watching everyone enjoy themselves and I’m not really a part of things. I’m excited to join in new things and meet new people but I just lack the confidence to do it. I know part of this is that I’m self-conscious about my weight even though I’m working on it.
This also extends to social media. I have a hard time breaking in and joining because what if what I say is dumb or people think I’m silly. This is why I read lots of blogs and don’t comment. I don’t always feel like what I have to say is important enough.
I’m going to work on my fears and shyness and join things. So if you see me looking lost say hello…please.
Brad Gansberg said,
June 2, 2011 at 8:55 am
I was shy as well, and I know just how hard it can be to jump in. You are doing great. Keep trying, even if it feels unnatural. In time, it gets easier.
Brad
P.S. For what it is worth, I don’t think you are dumb or silly. I think you are honest, and for me, that is the key.
Bambi said,
June 2, 2011 at 9:16 am
Thanks so much Brad. I’m really working on being okay enough with myself to not think the negative things and be happy with who I am. It is a journey as much as my weight loss is.
Amanda said,
June 3, 2011 at 4:46 am
Yeah, what he said.
Emily said,
June 2, 2011 at 9:28 am
I have my shy moments as well. Especially in large groups of people I do not know. I learned by going to Fitbloggin that even though I didn’t read all the blogs of the people that were there, I still “knew” them. We are all in similar places, we are all aspiring for the same goals. It’s definitely a lot easier than I thought! As for commenting, I am still in the same boat as you…I feel as though what I have to say is minimal, or someone else already said it. But the thing I try to remember is how I personally I get excited about comments on my blog and they are all important to me. So don’t be afraid to leave a comment, it will be important to the blogger
Bambi said,
June 2, 2011 at 9:45 am
Thanks Emily. I really like that take on leaving comments, i’m trying to do better with it.
Vinny said,
June 2, 2011 at 10:18 pm
My biggest issue my whole life has been that I’m shy. I have all kinds of social anxiety and I believe it’s all due to my weight. With that being said…I too am trying to change. I’m done sitting in the corner and watching everyone else have fun as well.
My advice to you (and I know it’s easier said than done) is get out there. Comment on blogs , join that running club and just make it a point to say hello to 1 new person a week ( in person). Also don’t worry about commenting or busting into a conversation with anyone in the fitbloggin community. They are ALL amazing and welcoming people. Take it from this shy guy…they all ROCK!
So, I officially welcome you into this great community!!
Hi I’m Vinny….nice to meet you . 
Bambi said,
June 2, 2011 at 10:37 pm
Nice to meet you Vinny! Thanks for the comment and I’m going to take your advice. Your volg was really inspirational in making me want to jump off the sidelines.
Amanda said,
June 3, 2011 at 4:45 am
I totally understand. I find it easier, though, to talk on social media. I can chat all day on FB with one of my grad students, but meet her FtF and I’m all tongue tied.
Putting yourself out there can be really scary. I always feel like I don’t belong. I show up in my social camouflage and try and blend in. After 2 1/2 years of being in belly dance. I’m just now starting to feel like I belong there.