Small NSV

PixieDustTwinkleToes

Not really weight related, but I wanted to share this in case anyone else is/ has been in my situation.

For as long as I can remember, I've suffered from social anxiety. Being alone around people I don't know makes me panic, and as irrational as it is, I can't help but think they're looking at me, judging me or laughing at me or something. Stupid, I know, but just like being terrified of spiders, I cannot help it.

Because of this, I don't like straying far from my home by myself and have very little confidence. Over the years I've gained a lot more weight than I'd like and in a way it's been easy to hide behind. I can tell myself people *are* looking at me, because I'm fat, not just being daft. It only made me unhappier though, and I went through periods of depression. There's been the odd time I've gone on a fitness kick, joined a gym and lost the weight, but as soon as my buddy decides they've had enough, I stop going and gradually gain it all back.

This time though, I decided enough was enough. I don't like the way I look or feel and I didn't want my weight or my anxiety to hold me back. I roped a pall into swimming with me three times a week, which was great, but I realized that alone was never going to cut it. So tonight I made a huge leap.

I went swimming. In a public pool. By my self.

Such a simple thing for most people, but for me it was a major milestone and right now I feel on top of the world. It feels like so many doors have opened up and for the first time in a long time, I can take control of my life.

So for anyone else out there who has social anxiety, or who is just worried about doing something alone, if I can give you just one piece of advice, it's just to do it. Whatever has been holding you back, just run at it head first and conquer that fear. You'll feel like a rock star afterwards.

LearnFromTheRed

That is such good news - well done you!!

ftballmom9296

Congratulations that is a HUGE VICTORY for yourself and you deserve all the applause one can handle. You will get better and better at things like this and one day you will look back and ask yourself what you were so afraid of. You are beautiful and do not let anyone tell you any different. Those who judge are insecure themselves in my opinion.

Ashkea76

My hubs has social anxiety....so this is a huge step for you, and something to be very proud of! Keep it up!

hproskie

That's a MAJOR accomplishment- don't sell yourself short! I suffer from pretty crippling social anxiety myself, as well as depression, and I know just how hard it can be to do things like go grocery shopping when you feel like everyone is judging your food choices. When I exercise, it's on my treadmill in my basement, or to a DVD when I'm home alone. I can only hope that one day I'll be as bold as you! :drinker:

ldnmaggie

Massive acomplishment. I hope to be able to do that one day too. xxxxxxxx