At times like these, it is helpful to consider some of the benefits or advantages of being shy.
These might not immediately come to mind, but these positive traits are true of many shy people.
You probablyshrink from complimentsor downplay your positive attributes.
Shyness can have its advantages.Getty / Ascent/PKS Media Inc.
At the same time, you gotta be careful not to cross the line from modesty to self-deprecation.
This trait can be helpful when it comes to many life decisions.
At the same time, this tendency to think long and hard before you take action should be moderated.
Too much shyness can make you seem aloof or standoffish.
This calmness and ability to “not react” may have a positive effect on those around you.
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This can also make you a better leader.
Without your struggle against shyness, you would not have developed the ability to cope with life’s difficulties.
Because making friends is not easy, you may place more value on the friends that you have.
Plus, your tendency to avoid small talk means that your friendships are not likely to be superficial.
Your increased sensitivity to reward may mean you find more value in working toward goals.
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Butler, G. Overcoming shyness and social anxiety.New York: Basic Books; 2008.
Estrada A.Studying the evolutionary benefit of personality traits.
Evans Ogden L.Survival of the shyest: Timidity’s surprising benefits.
Science.The rewards of being shy.
