How To Be More Outgoing

I have seen my shyness rob me of several great opportunities. I sit back and think, “What if I was not so intimidated and had engaged that person when they were talking to me instead of giving my one word responses? Oh how I may have advanced personally and professionally.”

If you feel this way, this may be the time to become more outgoing so that you don’t handicap your own progress. Neither in school or work do you want to be the one who is seen as the wallflower.

It's time to break out of your shell (Photo: DANYBOUZAS)

It will take some time and effort to become a more outgoing person, however, it is necessary to further your career and your social life. Here are a few steps to take to become more outgoing:

1. Smile. This makes you look more approachable and can be an unspoken ice breaker with a new person.

2. Improve the friendships you currently have. This will allow them to be comfortable introducing you to their other friends, thereby expanding your social circle.

3. Greet persons. Make a conscious effort to greet people when you enter a room. Say hi to the person who sits next to you on the bus or as you wait in the doctor’s office. This takes away some of the fear that you may have of speaking to others. As you challenge yourself in this way, you get to feel more comfortable talking to new persons and realize that people are not as intimidating as you may think.

4. List your accomplishments to build your confidence and show yourself that you have something to contribute in conversation and association with others.

5. Socialize more. Don’t avoid going to parties, networking events, and other social gatherings. So whether it is a fun day at the beach, a picnic, or a cocktail party at a restaurant, show up and converse with those around you. You don’t have to be the life of the party, but you can speak to those you sit next to or join group discussions. This could lead to new friendships and endear you to teachers, leaders and even your boss.

Becoming an outgoing person is not going to happen quickly; you don’t have to try to become a social butterfly overnight but taking it step-by-step allows you to grow as a person. You would also develop skills that will help you progress in work and life, and form relationships with people who are able to advise you and facilitate the advancement of your career and even social life.

Get more outgoing to improve your social life