Perhaps you, too, have recollections of times when you felt tense or awkward during social interactions, especially with unfamiliar people, or at the thought of facing certain social situations. You are not alone. Studies show that over 90 percent of people surveyed report being shy at some point in their lives and 40 percent consider themselves currently shy at least in some situations. Shyness is not a life sentence without parole, however. You can begin today using helpful tools to soothe your discomfort and open a new world of fulfillment in relating to others.

By Kathryn Katafiasz Pepper