What makes the difference between "You think I'm really awesome-- that makes me feel good and I like being around you" and "You think I'm really awesome-- I'm uncomfortable and this is awkward"? Can things work if one person is the clear initiator of building a friendship? [more inside]
posted by EmilyClimbs on Jan 9, 2009 - 22 answers

I am shy and sometimes socially anxious person who has benefitted greatly from social activities run by a small support group where I live (Glasgow, Scotland). I found that site just by sheer good fortune after learning (a couple of years ago) to type the phrase "social anxiety" into Google. I would like to meet more people and have more of a social life and so have started a local Shyness group on Meetup.com. I would like my group and my site to appeal to those who see themselves as shy rather than socially anxious and to those who know they are shy but have never heard of social anxiety. Where would be good places online and offline to promote our group? Where are the local shy people to be found?
posted by AuroraSky on Feb 13, 2007 - 9 answers

I am seeking advice/opinions on the situation with my crush. So many questions - is it a hopeless situation? [more inside]
posted by bolognius maximus on Aug 4, 2006 - 23 answers

I'm new to Minneapolis, fresh out of college, working at a job where my co-workers are much older than me, and I'm feeling a bit stumped over how to go about finding some new friends. I enjoy rock shows, bike riding, indie movies etc., but I feel shy going out all by myself. What are some good ways to find a niche and some good pals in a new town? [more inside]
posted by bonheur on Apr 7, 2004 - 14 answers