This group is for anyone who feels shy or anxious in social situations and wants to improve their confidence. The group is designed to gently move people out of their comfort zones and to provide a safe space for people to practice conversations and group speaking without the fear of being judged.
This is something I have struggled with for many years, and still find myself in situations where nerves get the better of me. The fear has led me to miss many opportunities, and I want to help myself and others to feel more comfortable.
This is not a public speaking group, but it will encourage people to be the centre of attention at times and gently gain confidence in being seen. This is also not a therapy group run by professionals, but a voluntary group run by people who struggle with social anxiety as well.
We meet on two Friday evenings a month (generally every other week) at Rock Road Library community room, which is a very quiet and private space. This space is provided to talk with other who feel the same as you, which can offer a great source of relief and support. This could also be a place to meet new people to go out with, who understand how you feel in social situations.
The General Structure
Introductions.
We’ve all been there, having to introduce yourself to a new class, in a meeting or social setting, the fear as you wait your turn to speak, and everyone is looking at you. This group will enable practice to introduce yourself to the group. Or you may be asked to talk in pairs and to introduce the other person.
Each week there will also be one or two different activities, working in pairs/small groups or the whole group. There may be questions given as a guide or starting subject on what to talk about, this could be either general questions, or simply talking about the positives and challenges. It could involve picking a question from the jar to talk about, talking for 5 minutes with each person in the room, or having a discussion within the whole group.
Ending the evening with an activity to help move you out of your comfort zone. This will be an opportunity to gain more confidence in the spotlight. With different options and levels to suit everyone. This could range from standing up in front of the group and seeing how you feel in the spotlight, answering questions from the board, reading from a book/ a poem or talking about a subject of your choice. This has nothing to do with how well you present to the group, this is just purely for gaining confidence in being the centre of attention, so it really doesn’t matter what is said.
If this seems too challenging, there will be the option to simply sit in front of the group, if this is more comfortable. There is also no pressure to do any of these options, and it may be that you sit and watch until you feel more comfortable.
All these activities are designed to help us grow. I fully understand there will be feelings of fear coming up for everyone who wants to attend the group, but this is why we are here, and I will be feeling the same. I would encourage everyone to come and join however fearful they are and trust we are all in the same boat, and I encourage kindness and empathy within the group.
There is a small charge of £5 charge covering room rental. Please pay bacs before or on the night. Details will be sent to you when you click to join. You are welcome to bring cash if you prefer. Tea and Coffee will be provided.
The group is a powerful way to build confidence, but sometimes professional advice may be necessary. If you are experiencing extreme anxiety, please speak to your GP or relevant healthcare provider.
Please also message me if you have any questions.
