I thought long and hard about what I’d call this website. In the end, Celebrate Shyness is the title that spoke to me.

Most shy people think of their shyness as a negative trait. Many say that they don’t want to be shy, or that it prevents them from living the life that they want. Others say that shyness is their armor that protects them from the slings and arrows of having a robust social life.

And then there’s the whole bucketload of cultural stereotypes associated with shyness. You know — aloof, standoffish. The trembling wallflower on the sidelines of life. The wimpy guy. The coquettish girl. Whether you fit these stereotypes or not, they’re just one more label to make shy people more self-conscious about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that feel natural to them.

So I decided to Celebrate Shyness instead of feeding into stereotypes or adding to the negativity that most shy people feel about themselves.

Instead of trying to cover up feelings of shyness, why not own up to them?

After all, if shyness is a natural human trait, doesn’t it serve a purpose? 

Perhaps shyness — and not exclusively boldness — is what helped to advance humankind. 

We’re the cautious ones, the ones who came up with strategies instead of charging straight into battle.

We’re the thoughtful ones, the ones who took time out from the buzz of society to reflect, create, write, paint, dream.

We’re the doers who don’t seek acclaim for every achievement. In fact, the doing itself is often the reward.

We’re the ardent lovers who cherish friends and partners who truly get us, instead of taking relationships for granted.

We’re the sensitive ones who notice when someone is hurt or vulnerable, instead of ignoring their needs.

There are plenty of reasons to Celebrate Shyness. What’s yours?

QUESTION: There are plenty of reasons to Celebrate Shyness. What’s yours?