Feeling Shy?

Many children feel shy sometimes, whether they’re meeting new people, giving a talk, or answering a question in school. Here are some things to try when you feel shy:

• Pray. You are a child of God, and so is everyone else. Heavenly Father wants to help you.

• Breathe. Sometimes when you’re scared, you forget to breathe deeply enough. Taking slow, deep breaths can help you calm down.

• Smile. Sometimes when you’re feeling shy, other people may think you don’t want to be their friend. Smiling tells them that you are nice.

• Try. When you are in a situation where you’re feeling shy, you need to leave your comfort zone. Start small, and work up to harder things.

• Practice. Think about what you will do and say before you get into the situation. You can even practice with family or friends.

• Help. Think about and help others around you. Remember, someone who seems unfriendly may be shy just like you!

• Don’t give up! It may take a while before you learn to overcome your shyness, but don’t stop trying.

Illustration by Garth Bruner