The Other Side of the Street for the Socially Awkward | Thriftanista in the City

5.02.2013

The Other Side of the Street for the Socially Awkward

I'm shy and socially awkward masquerading as a social butterfly. I have never been about that on-location-picture-taking life. I've been wanting to take pics across the street. It's esthetically more appealing but I've always felt nervous about people looking at me. Yesterday, I was ready. Getting to the other side of the street is a big deal. 

Floral mid skirt


As a kid, I hated to walk alone because I was afraid that someone would say hi to me or look in my direction. There was no salutatory address at my high school graduation because I refused to speak. In college, I was super close to quitting in my final year so that I wouldn't have to give a required presentation. I continued to struggle with shyness and introverted tendencies while in the workforce often tensing up and drawing blanks when conversing with coworkers and clients.

anne klein tortoiseshell sunglasses

The couple of years have really pushed my limits and helped me push past social anxiety and general feelings of weirdness. I acknowledge the feeling but I don't let it stop me (most of the time).

floral skirt with animal print shoes

Trying to push a baby out of my body for 7 hours as strangers watched and/or got up close and personal with my lady bits. Being so "open" made me feel strangely powerful after it was all over. It makes doing regular stuff like walking down a street fully clothed easier. Sometimes, I say hello first!

forever 21 lace cutout cardigan

Another push was putting myself in front of the camera for the blog. I never would have imagined myself doing it. I have insecurities. I WAS a shrinking violet. The more I do it, the more confident I become. I no longer feel so uncomfortable with the way I look or the way I talk. I even say hello to the folks walking in front of my camera. I didn't even think about what they were thinking of me.

floral skirt ideas

Tomorrow I go across the street again. I'll be at SoFabCon meeting a whole lot of new people and in unfamiliar surroundings. Yes! That does scare the bejesus about of me!  I know I have made strides though. In the past, I simply would have stayed home.

File this post under random.

80s floral skirt
THRIFT Liz Claiborne full midi skirt - silence + noise racerback tank - purple swirl bubble ring - vintage Anne Klein tortoiseshell sunglasses FREE Forever 21 short sleeve cardigan RETAIL Gianni Bini platform cork platform sandals

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18 comments

Nelao Nengola said...

I love this blog post! I can relate. My dream is and has been to be a personal trainer and lifestyle coach and I recently started "selling" weight management products. The problem i'm having is that sales is more of a social career than I ever knew. Its pushing all kinds of limits and i've been putting a plan of action for ever just stalling so i dont have to actually get out there. Its been the most challenging task i'll ever take on (i think) but I'll come out so much stronger. I just need the courage to push! Thanks, you should do random post more often!

tashandtora said...

Great Post! I've struggled with being socially awkward for years. I actually didn't even go to my company's holiday party. I am getting better though with the more I blog or get involved with social engines. It takes time as it's a work in progress. It's funny though because my husband is the total opposite. He love to be the center of attention and can spark a conversation with anyone. After reading this post it's glad to know that we can evolve and overcome those fears.

FabEllis | Beauty, Fashion + Natural Hair said...

I love this post! Believe it or not, some days I am rather awkward and shy. I have to push myself through it. Love the outfit!

Tricia Hersey said...

Awesome post. So proud of you venturing all over the north side streets. Next stop in the summer is the lakefront. You could work so many poses with the water in background. Violet is a master photo bombing too.

Cherrie J. said...

Love this!!! When I used to use my tripod to take outfit pics, I would get so annoyed by the ppl passing by and being nosy!! Kudos to you. Now im back in NYC and wouldnt dare take pictures with my tripod in the street lol. I am shy and sometimes awkward too. It takes me some time to fully warm up to ppl. I have no idea why, but ive been trying to break out of it for the longest.

Anywho, I loveeee your mix of prints! I cant believe that you got that beautiful skirt for only $1!! Amazing!!

-Cherrie
CherrieAmore.com

Shon said...

You look amazing. I love the shoes and the skirt is so flattering.
Right on for feeling empowered!! Have a wonderful time at the conference and I am so happy that you are embracing your power! Go girl!

Ask Nia B said...

Awesome post! Glad you took the trek across the street; the scenery looks great and you look extra calm and cool. So glad you opened up; you look like a violet in full bloom! xo

Ask Nia B said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

Kenya Hunter said...

I love this post! I can so identify with this! I am completely socially awkward and hate taking photos with people around (among other things). I've gotten way better and way more comfortable than when I originally started doing it but so glad it's not just me! Thanks for doing this post! And I love, love, love your look - especially the skirt!

xo, Kenya

www.kenyaldesigns.com

Kenya L Fashion Blog

Be-Quoted.com said...

The colors on that skirt are amazing!

andre michalke said...

Hallo wunderschöne frau..dein foto gefällt mir..du bist echt süsse..hübsche.du siehst super sexy im Glockenrock aus...geiler weiter glockenrock gefällt mir wow geiler glockenrock....würde gerne das mal live sehen wollen wenn du den lederrock trags....l.g....ps wow du bist traum.......wunder schöne Lady

Cindy S. Collins said...

That floral outfit is really fabulous!

Megan, TfDiaries.com said...

That first sentence felt like it was coming from my mouth, I am the am the shyest person, but sadly people think I come off as a "snobby" because I'm so shy and socially awkward ;)

the domestic fringe said...

Great post! It's wonderful to see how much you are doing socially in spite of your shyness. Love that.

Your outfit is fabulous! Looks beautiful on you. Your little girl is a cutie too.

~FringeGirl

dedivahdeals.com said...

Great job....

Megan Magers said...

visiting you from the link up, loving the pop of color here and the print and the shape! such a perfect pairing with the white and orange too! xo

http://myotherclosetiscouture.blogspot.com

Tiff Ima said...

This outfit is adorable! That skirt is great.

Tiff Ima
Style Honestly

Tiffany said...

Great skirt!!!

www.kart00nista.com

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