Shy…
…always have been a bit, not overly but enough to want to set out in my teenage years to understand more about this trait. I wanted to embrace my shyness, not apologize for it but was also aware there were things I needed to work on. I began by enrolling myself in a speech and communication class in high school. Giving a speech in front of classmates was a terrifying thought but knew it was needed. I am thankful for the talented teacher and incredible human in Rose A. Nack… a tiny powerhouse of a woman who embraced the strengths in all of her students. While others may have identified certain traits in us as a weakness, not Rose… she saw the strengths in those traits and in us all!
Looking back, I can see the shyness in me as a young child. I had difficulty approaching others with questions, didn’t like being in front of a camera and I liked my quiet time. I have a pre-school report card that reads in the teacher comment section: “Jana enjoys swinging on the swing set during recess most days”. I am sure that was my reset time after interacting and communicating during class. Amazing at that age, I knew exactly what I needed for my little self to recharge.
There are the characteristics of being shy that can hold us back. When it comes to compliments, I love giving them but have had to learn to accept and receive them. Modesty is a shy characteristic but can be to a fault. While I feel being humble and modest is a good thing, I have had to practice accepting what others see in me and my work. Speaking up and standing up is not easy for the shy type. Speaking the truth in love is how I have approached this one, as that feels good and right to me.
There are many positive things about shyness … it can bring a sense of calm to others around you. People who are shy tend to be approachable. I have often been told that I am a good listener and easy to talk to. I truly enjoy learning about others, listening to their stories and really hearing what they have to say. Shy ones enjoy deep friendships and have a hard time with small talk. Spot on! I love my friends and am incredibly thankful for each one of them…they get me and I get them. In a female, shyness may be viewed as gentle and soft… I embrace this, trying not to let the sometimes harshness of the world change this in me. The ability to adapt & overcome adversity …I really like this strength and it has served me well over the years as I experience the challenges that are a part of this life journey.
I am thankful to my dear mom for passing along the shyness gene. She knew first-hand what it was like & she always encouraged me along the way. I am thankful for the gifts and lessons this trait has brought to my life. I see the strength in all of my shyness, it is a part of what makes me, me. Oh, and I still love to swing & I am still shy in front of a camera!
Embrace what makes beautiful you, you!
♥️,Jana
