The original post: /r/lifeprotips by /u/OfficialHelpK on 2024-04-19 10:12:52.

A very simple and obvious trick, but maybe there is someone who needs to hear it!

I know a lot of people who suffer from social anxiety and often their awkwardness will increase the risk of embarrassing situations arising, especially when being in front of a lot of people. I’ve found that they often react by looking scared or visibly embarrassed which often makes it even more awkward. Instead you should almost always defuse the situation by smiling or laughing which shows everyone that you’re not bothered by it. It also makes you appear more affable. Look at most people who are considered cool and you’ll see that they very often react to situations with a casual smile or a laugh.

Of course not everyone is in total control of their behaviour, especially if you have anxiety, but I think it’s a useful comfort to remember that laughing and smiling solves a lot of social situations.