Shyness is the cause of much unhappiness for a great many people. Shy people are anxious and (36)______; that is, they are exces

Shyness is the cause of much unhappiness for a great many people. Shy people are anxious and self-conscious that is, they excessively concerned with their own appearance and actions. Worrisome thoughts are constantly occurring in their minds: What kind of impression am I making? Do they like me? Do I sound stupid? Am I wearing unattractive clothes?
    It is obvious that such uncomfortable feelings must affect people adversely A person’s self-concept is reflected in the way he or she behaves, and the way a person behaves affects other people’s reactions In general, the way people think about themselves has a profound effect on an areas of their lives.
    Shy people are very sensitive to criticism; they feel it confirms their inferiority. They also find it difficult to be pleased by compliments because they believe they are unworthy of praise. A shy per son may respond to a compliment with a statement like this one: "You’re just saying that to make me feel good. I know it’s not true." It is clear that, while self-awareness is a healthy quality; over doing it is harmful.
    Can shyness ha completely eliminated, or at least reduced? Since shyness goes hand in hand with lack of self-esteem important for people to accept their weaknesses as well as their strengths, people’s expectations of themselves must be realistic. Living on the impassible leads to a sense of inadequacy.