Embracing Faith: Easing First-Meet Anxiety

In the first moments of getting to know someone, emotions can take over, yet even a small, focused action is capable of shifting our attention from self-critical thoughts to positive experiences. Many of us face nervousness and shyness when every minute counts, and it is precisely in those moments that it is useful to remind ourselves of what is truly valuable. One well-established method of dealing with inner tension is to devote attention to a spiritual practice, which helps achieve balance and confidence. By redirecting thoughts from fears to gratitude for loved ones and for everything that brings light into our lives, one can feel the anxiety recede, giving way to calmness and a confident mindset. This technique demonstrates that the power of faith and a meaningful approach to life can change one’s state even in the most nerve-wracking moments, opening the path to inner harmony and new achievements.

How can one overcome nervousness and shyness when meeting someone we find attractive?

To reduce nervousness and shyness during a first meeting, it can be helpful to shift the focus from self-critical thoughts to something that fosters inner balance and confidence. For example, one person recounts his experience: when overwhelmed by nervousness, he recited a short prayer for the health and salvation of his loved ones and immediately felt the anxiety subside. This shows that even a small, focused action—capable of reminding us of something important and valuable—can help manage nervousness. This approach, based on mindfulness and gratitude, often helps shift attention away from inner fears towards positive feelings and faith in a better future.

Supporting citation(s):
"Every time I thought of them with anxiety, when being far from home, I would recite a short prayer for their health and salvation, and the anxiety would fade away. Sorrow and depression are treated with gratitude to God, faith, and trust in Him. And in general, coping with deep sorrow without faith in God is simply impossible." (source: 1697_8482.txt)