Also I start to get into a trap where I know I should try to speak it more, but then I am so worried about making a stupid mistake and looking like an idiot. I know I have to overcome that but when you are already the type who tends towards social anxiety...it ain't easy! Honestly I do need to sit down and write down my reactions and look for distorted thinking, like that whole, "If I make a mistake I'll look like an idiot." And you know what, if people laugh or smirk, so what? Those are probably some good thoughts to challenge (I'm thinking out loud here ).