Candid Conversations: Vivien Mangalindan
Candid Conversations

Why Conversations Can Feel Overwhelming

Aug 18, 2023, 2:30 AM
Vivien Mangalindan

Vivien Mangalindan

Columnist

Have you ever found yourself stumbling through a conversation - with your thoughts racing and palms a bit sweaty? Well, these moments of social awkwardness are more common than you might think.

Let's explore what's happening inside your mind during these times. Discover ways to handle them with confidence.


THINKING TRAPS

"I mispronounced that word. Now they think I'm clueless!" Welcome to the world of self-talk - where tiny bloopers become major worries.


FEAR OF JUDGMENT

Socially awkward folks often have thoughts like, "What if I say something silly and they laugh at me?" Imagine being at a party - with that thought as you try to join a conversation.


LACK OF SOCIAL SKILLS

The thought, "I don't know how to join their conversation. What if I say the wrong thing?" can make talking with friends feel like trying to keep up in a marathon.


OVERTHINKING

Your mind races, "What if I can't keep the conversation going? What if I run out of things to say?" Overthinking is like a cloud blocking the sun.


LOW SELF-ESTEEM

Thoughts whisper, "Why would they want to talk to me? I'm not interesting enough." Imagine you're in a group discussion at work - with those thoughts stopping your ideas from being shared.


AVOIDANCE BEHAVIOR

Avoiding that gathering because of, "What if I feel out of place?" is like missing out on a chance to shine in your own unique way.


PERCEIVED EXPECTATIONS

Feeling pressure - you think, "I have to be the funniest person here to make friends." But who set that expectation? It's time to change your mindset.


DIFFICULTY INITIATING AND SUSTAINING CONVERSATIONS

"I can't come up with anything interesting to say. What if the conversation dies down?" It's like trying to keep a conversation going without the right rhythm.


UNPREDICTABILITY OF SOCIAL INTERACTIONS

What if they ask something unexpected? Thoughts race, "What if I react in the wrong way?" It’s like driving a car in strange territory without GPS.


TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

Show your personal way of communicating. And learn from every interaction.


Growth takes time. Don’t aim for perfection - just progress.

  • Keep on Talking. Every word you share is a step towards building connections.
  • Keep Learning. With each conversation, you gain insights that make future discussions smoother.
  • Always Be Yourself. Authenticity shines brighter than any rehearsed lines.


Remember: Your voice plays a role in your conversations.


vivienshowandtell@gmail.com


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