Hi everyone! I hope everyone is keeping their spirits up during these tough times! Today’s topic is coming out of your shell and beyond. The first thing that comes to mind when I hear the phrase coming out of your shell is the famous idiom. According to (“come out of your shell”, 2020) coming out of your shell it means to become more confident in showing your true character and feelings. Everyone breaks out of their shell at different points in their life. For some it easy and for others it is a difficult process. I would rather use the term breaking or exploding out of one’s shell because it’s a liberal defining moment. As you are reading this post I hope you are thinking about your journey of coming out of your shell because this is topic that relates to everyone.
I can definitely identify personally with this topic. My journey of exploding out of my shell with guns blazing took many years and many pep talks in front of a mirror. The process of chiseling away at your shell might need to happen more than, in different setting. For example, when coming to university I grew a new shell while in the unfamiliar environment. Once I become more comfortable in the new environment, I was able to break free again! I am very much an introvert and get very intimidate in large groups. With time my confidence grew, I felt more comfortable in my own skin and with the people around me, I knew it was time to show them who I really am. After coming out I found it easier to connect to people, it was also reassuring knowing the people around me accept my true nature. The journey of breaking out of your shell comes with growth and new experiences.
To all those still in their shells it’s alright, you and only you get to decide when you are comfortable enough to share with the world who you really are. For those who standing proud on the remains of tiny shell fragments, be supportive and share your experiences with others. You just might inspire someone. Check out the link below for tips on how you can get through this process.
I will leave everyone to ponder over the wise words of Tennyson, “ The shell must break before the bird can fly…”
Links:
- https://anxiety-gone.com/break-social-anxiety-shell/ (this website has tips on how to break out of your shell)
- https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-life/330907-how-to-break-out-of-my-shell-p2.html (this is a website and online forum that allows you to interact with others who are struggling to break out of their shell)
- https://elearninginfographics.com/help-shy-kids-break-shell-infographic/ (this website has tips on how parents and teaches and help their kids gain confidence)
- https://theartofsimple.net/come-out-of-your-shell/ (here is another website with tips to improve your confidence)
References:
1. come out of your shell. (2020). Retrieved 12 November 2020, from http://www.idioms4you.com/complete-idioms/come-out-of-your-shell.html
Inside the mind of a 4th year OT student 