does anyone know how I can overcome anxiety/embarrassment talking on the phone like calling
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If you’re calling for a specific reason, like ordering food or whatever, write down what you want (plus any questions you have) ahead of time.
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If they ask you something that you’re not expecting or don’t understand, it’s ok to take a bit of time to think or ask them what they mean.
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Practice your intro or write it down if you need to. Something as simple as “Hello, I’m calling to make an appointment with Dr. Jones”, or “Hi, I’d like to place an order”, or whatever.
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And as a general anxiety tip, know that it’s always worse just before you do something. Most of the things we worry about never end up happening, and sometimes when they happen they aren’t that big of a deal.
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Take a second to remind yourself that what you’re doing is super normal, and so is making mistakes or being a bit awkward. The people who you’re talking to are used to dealing with all different kinds of strangers on the phone, including a lot of people with anxiety, hearing/speaking problems, etc.
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Filter the anxiety into anger. How DARE they speak to you. Make it their problem, try the fight response instead of the fawn or flight one, todaaaay!
disclaimer: im just bullshitting maybe dont but i dunno, maybe do
You just adjust over time. Exposure is important, but only if you feel comfortable. Try making a plan, where the end goal is like calling your doctor, and make small steps. Start by thinking about that call, reward yourself with something small (like a couple m&ms) and practice a bit (not all at once) till their is no anxiety. A 2nd step could be rehersing or/and a friend calling you. Your first step may be different based on your level of anxiety. Have many small steps that eventually get you to your goal. Stay safe and have a good day.
thanks for this <3 I will try it
The only way out is through, you have to work at it and practice it. There was a time in my life when I was a teenager I couldn’t order my own fast food, I would tell my mother what I wanted and then go use the bathroom. Start small if you can, depending on what your situation is like maybe call a friend with a goal of chatting for 10 minutes, maybe order food. It can be hard to start but practicing putting yourself out of your comfort zone is the only way to expand it.
