People with social phobia or social anxiety often worry that they are awkward or don’t fit it with everyone else. However, almost everyone has that worry to some degree. And, we are all awkward at times.

A few months ago, I got my hair cut at the same salon I’ve been utilizing for several years. I was in the waiting area, as my stylist was finishing up the appointment before me. A woman I do not know who works there came over as I was absorbed in my thoughts and called my name. I looked up and said, quite loudly, “yes” as I stood up. But it was more like “YES!” in the semi-busy salon. I was clearly heard over all the other conversations and was mildly embarrassed by my volume.

But what could I do? Apologize for being too loud ever-so-briefly? Explain that I was thinking and had to snap back to reality? Blow it off and figure everyone makes mistakes?

The woman looked shocked, but only momentarily. She said “Come on back to get washed.” I followed her back to the sinks and she made small talk, which I returned in my normal voice. I blew it off. No big deal. No need to make a thing when there isn’t any.

With social phobia or social anxiety, people often think they need to have contingency plans for their contingency plans. Blow that off. Skip that extra work. Live in this moment. That moment is already over.

As for me, if that was the story they told one another at the salon at closing time and had a good laugh, then have a good laugh on me. The world needs more laughter and stories.

Autumn Hahn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist practicing at Clear Mind Group in Weston, Florida. Call 954-612-9553 for a consultation. Follow Autumn on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+. Sign up for the e-newsletter HERE.