When I'm alone running errands, I often worry about someone coming up to me and throwing a knife in my face. I'm pretty sure this is due to my belief that every stranger is "dangerous." But, then I realize they are just like me. I worry about waiting in lines, taking too long at the register, and looking weird just standing there. I often think about cashiers judging me on what I'm buying. However, over the years I have come up with ways to cope and stay calm in these kinds of situations in public. I've realized I can't stay nervous in public situations forever because I have to go out in public for the rest of my life.
1. Use your phone when waiting.
We've all been told that young people need to get off of their phones and look up, but phones are actually a really good tool for social anxiety. If you're waiting in line alone and everyone else has a friend they're talking to, play an iPhone game! My personal favorite is Toy Blast and I love seeing all the colors of the blocks explode. Another idea is to text a friend! I would say call but say you're in line to pay for something. The cashier would really appreciate you not being on the phone.
2. Carry a worry stone.
I don't have a worry stone, but I have something similar. My boyfriend and I wear a lava and tiger stone bracelet. The beads on the bracelet are smooth, so when you're nervous, rub your thumb over it. Always have it on hand, so when you're nervous, the smooth surface will help relax you.
3. Positive self-talk.
I often experience the most anxiety when I'm at my job. I work in a restaurant, and ever so often, there are meal rushes where everyone is in a hurry to pay. I'm a cashier, and some customers expect me to hand out change quickly. If it ever gets to be a lot, I just have to remind myself that I will get through the rush.
4. Sit down.
My anxiety makes me light headed sometimes because I feel that everything is moving too fast. When everything is so fast-paced, my mind and body are not in sync with each other and it overwhelms me. By sitting down or even holding a friend's hand(if they're around) helps center me and gets me back on the ground.
5. Eat a snack.
I have Hypoglycemia, which is basically a fancy word for constant low blood sugar. If my blood sugar gets low, it sometimes causes me to feel nervous because my hands shake. Sometimes just eating something small makes me good as new.
Overall, these tips are what help me get through the day when I go out in public. However, some of these may or may not work for you. All anxiety is different for each individual. The important thing to remember is that it's normal to have anxiety sometimes.
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