The Student Room Group

Confidence n Compliments

Back at school, I was bullied alot and I feel that this has had a serious affect on my confidence. Im going to Uni in September and am feeling pretty nervous in the fact that I will find it hard possibly to start conversations with people I dont know. I also find it hard to digest people's compliments. I normaly go all shy or just simply dont believe it when its especially coming from men. Does anyone have any advice on how I can overcome this?

Reply 1

i usually just laugh and look down and say... Oh dont be silly you! or something like that... its not like.. "no im not!" and its not... "oh yes i know :wink: " but somewhere in between that shows you appreicate it, but are a bit embarrassed :smile:

Reply 2

I am really shy and lack loads of confidence. I feel this is really weird for an 18 year old guy as i see all other guys my age brimming with confidence. I find it impossible to talk to people i don't know and never even bother unless they talk to me. I am going to uni as well in September. I've even thought of opting out because of my shyness. I have heard though that in uni it's very easy to talk to people and it can be a big confidence-building experience. So just don't worry I'm sure people who are less shy will talk to you first and you'll have a great time!

Reply 3

I'm sure there are many many people in a similar situation, those who fear the task of starting conversations, I can sometimes be one of them.
For compliments, my girlfriend always tells me I'm silly when I say she is beautiful, but I know that she likes it. It's better than dealing with it in an arrogant manner.

Reply 4

This isnt my strong point! I just get all defensive-not good! and say all my bad points! Im stopping that!!

Reply 5

I know how you feel, OP. Um.... all you can do is work on your confidence by putting yourself into a few... uncomfortable situations where you have to talk to people etc.