Six Practices to Simplify Your Social Interactions and Lower Your Social Anxiety

With Covid restrictions loosening and school back in full swing, people are returning to work, parties, and social opportunities. Many are experiencing the effects of social anxiety as they get back into the swing of social living. Despite feelings of awkwardness or fear in social situations, it's essential to recognize that humans are wired to connect. Here are six practices to simplify your social interactions and minimize social anxiety.

1. Help People to Feel Wanted

All human beings have an innate desire to be loved and appreciated. Everyone wants to feel wanted. Instead of assuming that nobody wants to talk to you, assume that everyone wants someone to talk to. Set your mind to reaching out to others as a way of meeting their basic need, serving them, and making them feel wanted.

2. Lead With Character Over Personality

Relationships are a long-term game. While some try to win people over with tricks of personality, lasting trust is built on character. Understand your strengths, live by your highest principles and values, and focus on character ethics rather than relying on the superficial aspects of personality.

3. Practice Standing Together Instead of Standing Out

Recognize that most people share more similarities than differences. Instead of trying to set yourself apart, aim to bring yourself together with others. Create connections by finding common ground, asking questions, and showing curiosity. There's no need to brag or overshadow; focus on building connections.

4. Turn Off Your Reptilian Brain

The amygdala, or reptilian brain, is responsible for fight/flight/freeze responses. Anxiety often stems from the chronic firing of this brain, framing everything as a threat. Recognize when your reptilian brain is active and shift to the prefrontal cortex by asking higher-level questions. Focus on serving others, living by your values, and being the best person you can be.

5. Turn Off the Reptilian Brains of Others

Recognize that everyone has a reptilian brain, and turning off their threat detection mechanisms is key to accessing their hearts. Social intelligence involves creating safety, trust, appreciation, respect, validation, encouragement, and dedication. Be a positive force, and help others feel better about themselves and their lives.

6. Be A Connector of People

Show genuine care by connecting people. Act as a bridge between those you've just met and those you already know. Introduce like-minded individuals and be a connector. This not only grows your social circle but also demonstrates that you understand and connect with the needs of those around you.