To put it simply, I have really bad social anxiety. Although, meeting me you probably wouldn’t notice. I love to talk and making people laugh. I am a complete open book with anyone I meet. Which, has yet to be determined as a good or bad trait. It took years of work and overcoming fears to reach this part of my life. In 2016, I made it a point to do anything and everything. I was determined to find me and the best plan I could think of was trial and error. During this year, I had a few almost starts and a lot of doubt, but in the end I found love; self-love. I met some absolutely wonderful people. I don’t think words can describe the lovely people in my life.
I joined a Sorority, recruitment was hot and stressful but I am pretty sure this sisterhood is the best in the world. I changed my hair, and started wearing lipsticks that weren’t red or pink (it turns out I like dark colors) . To some these are just average run of the mill college lady things. For me, these are me finally doing things for me and not caring how others see me. I spent my entire life blending in, not wanting to be noticed. It was neither comforting or fulfilling for me. It is hard to talk to people and share my opinions, because there is still a part of me that is terrified of being rejected. It isn’t nearly as irrational as it was once-upon a time, but it is there. Every day is challenge to be braver and bolder. It’s great being the you that you wished you could be.
My challenge for any lady or gent reading this article; take the new year magic or clean crisp winter air (unless you are in Georgia) and take some chances. Put yourself out there. Talk to people. Go on impromptu adventures. Compliment random strangers. Spread love and show the world you can kick ass at the same time. Rock your major classes and take that one class that has nothing to do with your career for the hell of it. Don’t let there be a what if in your brain. Sing like no one is around. Dance like you are three shots in, even if you’re sober. Laugh all the time. Be a beacon of joy and life for you and all those around you. It might seem crazy doing things you have never done before or “are so not you”. Do it anyway. From the girl who used to be scared to talk to people or speak in general and is now in constant state of never shutting up; do the things that scare you. It is the chances you don’t take that will keep you up at night. So go on, take the world by storm. I dare you.
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