Hello Dr. Richards,
It's been ages since I've written. I'm on session 11 of the audio therapy series. You'll be happy to hear that I successfully completed both college courses last semester (Winter). I attended every lecture even though it was hard at times. I received an "A" in both courses.
My social life is pretty hectic these days. I've suddenly begun to realize that people enjoy my company and look forward to meeting me. I'm not afraid to set up meetings with professors and actually go meet with them.
I'm not afraid of making phone calls anymore. When I decided to change our phone plan, I didn't hesitate to pick up the phone, dial the number and initiate the conversation. When I need to hire someone for home repairs (plumbing, gutter cleaning, etc.) I simply utilize the yellow pages, call as many places as possible and try to get the best deal.
A few things that I haven't tried yet (because I haven't had the chance) are:
1) group discussions
2) meetings
3) introducing myself to a big group of people...in a classroom
4) making presentations
Hopefully, I'll get the chance to do all these things next semester when I start going to University again.
The good news is that the thought of introductions, presentations, meetings and group discussions don't scare me anymore. I've been turning the tables on the ANTs (ie, trying to make my thoughts neutral about these situations) and it really has worked. I'm happy and I deserve it.
I won't be around for a while as I'm leaving for a well deserved vacation.
I just wanted to let you know how I was doing.
Vanessa