One of the difficulties those with social anxiety disorder (SAD) face is the tendency towards being self-conscious and inwardly focused. If you are receiving treatment for SAD, one avenue for broadening your focus is to learn to become more thoughtful of others. This can be accomplished by making a simple goal to do five thoughtful things each day. You might plan the first three items and then let the other two come about spontaneously. Although at first it will feel unnatural, with practice you will learn to automatically think about the needs of others. Eventually, you will make it a priority to be considerate of others in any interaction. Remember that thoughtfulness will also bring good karma your way. Below are some suggestions of ways that you can show thoughtfulness for others. If you stuggle with social anxiety, you might think that it is hard to be thoughtful. Thoughtful people often tend to be outgoing and talkative; they show thoughtfulness in their connections with others. You might feel like you are not good enough or well-liked enough to show outward thoughtfulness toward others. In fact, thoughtfulness needs to start with yourself. If you struggle with severe social anxiety and have not received treatment, consider looking into different alternatives with your doctor, such as medication or therapy. If you don’t feel up to doing it for yourself, think about how the changes that you make could impact those around you. Finally, what if people notice your changes? How can you explain your sudden thoughtfulness? Honesty is as good an explanation as any. Perhaps tell others it is a New Year’s Resolution to be more thoughtful and think of others more. Or, that you just read a book on the topic. Let go of any guilt about your past behavior and start on a new path today.
