Gift of Shyness :)

I just started reading a book, titled "The Gift of Shyness" by Dr Alexander Avila. The author is actually a researcher cum clinical pyschologist and is particularly well-versed in the research of shyness in men and women.

It is said that there are about 40-60% of people in America and Japan admitting that they are shy. Ok, i am shy by nature as well. Some of u may not tell. But yes i am =D When i was younger, i was even more shy. hahaha. When i first meet new people, i am the quiet girl they would perceive..and more of an observer..however, as i get warmed up to the new friends, then i will start to open up to them and play with them!! But i guess, as i grew older, i'm less shy, but perhaps, it's still in me =DD Like..i get anxious and nervous with i'm alone with the person i like, I can't eat properly when i'm with him and all.

The word, "shy" has been stereotyped to be dull, fearful, quiet, timid and hopeless nerd. Some said that to be shy in our society is to be considered less than a complete human being. And like what some said in the book, i shall quote, " Shyness has been defined as a harmful psychological state that causes people to withdraw from others because they are extremely fearful of being judged or criticized." Oh man..such negative definitions...no wonder no one likes to be associated with 'shyness'. This is especially so in the western countries. however, in eastern countries, like in China, being shy and quiet are compilments!! Teachers love these kinda stuffs and would often praise them for being guai1 and dong shi.

The author and some other researcher, being westerners, see shyness in a different light. There are actually 7 gifts of shyness!

1) Gift of senstivity
2) Gift of long and loyal relationship
3) Gift of listening
4) Gift of reflection
5) Gift of modesty
6) Gift of mystery
7) Gift of gentleness

Woahh! haha not bad!! I was a bit Ya Ya Papaya when i read about it! haha there are quite a few good points abt being shy ya! Shall share more as i continue reading it :))