I often wonder how my life would have been if I were an extrovert, as being an introvert is a bit difficult for me. At first, I thought I was just shy or timid, but then I realized that all I ever thought about was what others would think of me if I talked or acted a certain way. I was never comfortable around people, and seeing how others easily talked with each other made me feel like something was wrong with me. Even at family functions, I would be quiet and not know how to start or continue a conversation. I would get extremely awkward when I went out, so I stopped going out and started making excuses to avoid social interactions.

Unfortunately, some people didn't help with their lectures and taunts, like "Why are you being weird?" "Why don't you talk?" "Is there something wrong with you?" "Stop showing attitude, you must speak if you want to achieve something in life. You won't impress anyone if you are being like this." Hearing all these words made me even more miserable, and my confidence level and self-esteem were down to zero. People were pretty judgmental, and I felt the truth in the saying “The tongue has no bones but can break a heart”.

After being miserable for some days, I decided to do something about my situation. I didn't want to share my feelings with others because I thought no one would understand me, so I started searching for answers. I came to know that I am an introvert, and the more I read about my behaviors, the more I got to know about my personality. I realized that I just had a unique personality, and everyone is different with their own insecurities to worry about. So, instead of seeing my behaviors negatively, I decided to look at them in a positive light. I was a good listener, observant, and could open up with selected people. I was just uncomfortable in groups, but confident when having one-on-one conversations. I could even let my crazy side out with my loved ones without worrying about anything.

All I had to do was accept myself the way I am and love my flaws. Now, I like the way I lead my life. I don't care what others say about me because no one is perfect. Instead of being a fake extrovert, as society wants me to be, I am happy to acknowledge the valuable traits being an introvert brings.

The moral of my story is - self-love is crucial! You need to believe in yourself and your abilities. And if you can't do that just yet, fake it until you make it. Trust me, with time and effort, confidence will come naturally. Don't let self-doubt hold you back - take charge of your life and start building your self-esteem today!