Shyness and social anxiety is debilitating and adds to everyday problems, lowering quality of life. We all feel shy at some point in our lives. Speaking to strangers can give you a sharp feeling of shyness.

People who stop being shy for years can suffer those feelings rise up again when meeting perhaps an old school teacher, or friend from way back. . Shyness can be beaten with practise. Shyness can return when you least expect it, but try to remain confident. If you don't look forward to everyday situations, such as meetings or talking to colleagues, then plan how you're going to handle the situations. trying to think about what to talk about and being prepared will mean you feel more comfortable. It's a good idea to practise talking to people such as store clerks, starting the conversation means you can control the flow.

Going out with friends is of course always good, but if it's a certain set of friends that make you feel shy then maybe take a break from seeing them while you work on building up your confidence. When you do meet up with them again make sure you're ready, and on!

Being to hard on yourself will not help you to stop being shy, only increase your shyness! Don't be your own worst enemy, be positive and fair, you want to improve your self esteem. Begin with small things and dont be too hard on yourself, noticing things you can get better at.

Travelling can be great for helping to overcome shyness, as meeting new people gives you a chance to reinvent yourself, plus the people you meet are not going to judge you as they don't know you. You can comeback feeling not only refreshed, but less anxious and shy around people you know, taking care not to let your shyness creep back in. Getting over shyness is an ongoing process. It's never too late to learn how to stop being shy.