I was super shy when I was a kid. My mom had to take me out of girl scouts because I was too shy to talk to any of the girls there. (In case you were wondering, this is not so much of a problem for me anymore - ha.)
Even though I've gotten over the cry-if-I-have-to-talk-to-anyone shyness, I am still a total homebody. I would chose staying home and catching up on my Google Reader over going to a group outing. I get really nervous ahead of time and if I have enough time to think about it, I will cancel dinner dates with friends, or going to someone's house.
When I started law school I was intentional about joining things. I was on the board of a few clubs over those years, and it was an experience of growth and gaining courage. I made a lot of friends I would have never made, and went to a ton more events than I would have otherwise - because I had to be there. It was so much fun, but in the hours and minutes before, I would sit in my car and fight the urge to turn around and go home.
I've tried to keep applying that method to my normal life post-law school. I volunteer at church, and sign up to go to bible studies. I try to hang around a little after service to make connections and talk to people.
It isn't easy, and sometimes I feel INCREDIBLY awkward, but it is rewarding. The Boyfriend is really encouraging in this regard as well. Every Monday I get home and say, "I don't think I'll go to bible study tonight." But he doesn't stand for it, and sometimes has to shuffle me out the door while telling me I'll have fun. He's right, because every time I get home I tell him thank you, and gush about what a good time I had.
{via}
I guess all of this is to say, if you are shy, or a homebody, or get nervous in large groups, don't let that fear win. There are people out there who would love to know you, and groups that will enlighten your heart and fuel your passions if you just step out on a limb and get involved. If you don't go to church, check your community centers, read your newspaper or google something you're passionate about (I just learned that Small Town has a Community Garden, how cool is that?!). There are a ton of ways to get out of the house, meet new people, and grow in the process. We just have to be brave enough to take it on.
