Shy people often get a bad wrap for being insecure or overly sensitive. While they may have trouble speaking up in social settings, shy people are not necessarily insecure when it comes to how they feel about themselves or their ideas. They simply have trouble breaking through their own barriers once a fear of speaking up has set in.

If you struggle with shyness, know that it is possible to overcome. Start by considering the following DAS Demo points:

1. You have value to add.

Introverted people prefer to think about life internally and come up with their own conclusions. They are often quiet observers who, like more outspoken people, have their own interesting ideas about the world around them. As an introvert, you have just as much right to share your ideas as anyone else. You may be surprised to find others with similar thoughts or and see how your ideas might develop when you compare them with another point of view.

2. Insecurity is extremely common.

Believe it or not, everyone is insecure about something. In fact, some of the most outspoken people may be overcompensating to hide their fears. Being the loudest person in the room may make these people feel more secure, but it doesn't mean they really are that confident. Don't let someone else's brash posturing squash your confidence. Instead, see it for what it really is.

3. Don't take a bad response personally.

The way a person reacts to what you have to say often has more to do with them than with you. Maybe they are covering up their own insecurity, or maybe they are just in a bad mood. It is extremely freeing to say, "It's not me, it's you." Of course you should still consider the situation from the other person's point of view to see if anything you said could have caused offense, but otherwise don't dwell on the bad experience and don't let it keep you from trying again.

4. Laugh at your missteps.

Everyone puts their foot in their mouth at some point in life. While it can be agonizing at the moment, the embarrassment will quickly pass if you let it go. Think of your cringe-worthy comments as proof that you're human and something to laugh about down the road.

5. Start small and build relationships slowly.

If talking to a stranger (or classmate or coworker) is too stressful, start by making eye contact, sharing a passing smile, or saying hello. Give yourself small assignments, like asking someone for the time or making small talk with a coworker. Start with simple topics like the weather, popular TV shows, or current events.

6. Focus on the other person.

People appreciate a good listener. Take an interest in the other person and ask them general questions about themselves or their opinions. This takes the focus off yourself and lets you share when you feel more comfortable. Of course, keep the conversation light when talking to someone new and avoid personal topics that might make them uncomfortable and leave you both in an awkward silence.

Overcoming shyness can be difficult and will take a lot of practice. However, it can lead to finding fulfilling new relationships, both personal and professional. Overcoming shyness will also make it easier to more fully contribute to society, which helps both you and the world around you.