Stop Self-Sabotaging and Start Putting Yourself Out There (Yes, You)

 Riya Mital

Isolation can be hard. Maybe you just moved to a new city, new college, etc. But sometimes self-isolation can also be self-inflicted. I know I have definitely been guilty of it and it’s still something I work on everyday. Social interaction can be intimidating, I get it. But sometimes self-isolating just leads to you digging a bigger hole for yourself and it can also happen subconsciously, so you don’t even realize you are doing it. The best way to help with this is to consciously try to fix it. Here are a couple tips!

1. Say YES

• If someone asks you to do something and you can’t think of a legitimate reason not to, say YES

Sometimes our fear gets in the way of making really incredible memories and we tend to say no more than we should. Start saying yes to invitations and see where it takes you. Some of my favorite memories have come from times where I didn’t even want to go in the first place.

2. Try talking to someone new everyday

Now if this sounds daunting, trust me, I know. But this doesn’t have to be as scary as it sounds. Even just sparking up brief conversation with your barista or a passerby can be a great way to practice getting yourself out there. This is also a great way to ease yourself out of your comfort zone, so please try it and work your way up slowly. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even meet some really awesome people

3. Search for events/clubs around you!

This may be easier if you’re already part of a community like in college, but there are many community activities all around you if you try. You can go to community events, join a sports team (even if you’re bad at it)—you would be surprised how many people want to make new friends too. And if there aren’t many clubs, start one!

4. Connections through connections through connections

A great way to make friends? Friends of friends. They can be valuable connections and chances are, if they are friends with one of your good friends, you probably have something in common. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them and make new connections through mutual connections. It’s a small world, so make the most of it. 

5. Get out of your house, even if just for 10 minutes

Besides leaving the house for school or work, go out for ten minutes, walk, do an
activity. Even if you don’t talk to anyone when you get out, there is a simple peace in just getting out and feeling more connected to the environment. It will help you feel less isolated from just being in a house, room, apartment, etc. all day. Self-isolation is a tough habit to break, but with time and new habits, it is possible to
heal. Although it seems like a lot to take in, if you can slowly implement new habits little by little, things will feel a whole lot better. To anyone who struggles with getting out, socializing, or anything along those lines, it’s okay. It won’t happen all at once, and it just takes time and action!