Pros and Cons of Shyness

We love this insightful post by xoxobrookie. Shy people make the best writers and Sparkitors, you know! —SparkNotes editors

I've been shy for as long as I can remember. It affects almost every aspect of my life. If you're like me, I'm sure you've heard numerous people ask, "Why are you so quiet?" or "How come you don't talk?" Some people just don't understand that we are naturally quiet and soft-spoken!

There are pros and cons of being a shy student in high school.

Pros:
* Teachers cut us some slack on class participation and the speaking portions of tests.
* Everyone assumes we are angels (even though we have a wild side deep, deep down).
* Some people assume we are naturally intelligent.
* We seem mysterious (like Edward Cullen).
* We're great listeners.
* Parents and teachers love us.
* We always get "a pleasure to have in class" on our report cards.
* We are sensitive. Most people love guys or girls that cry at sad movies.

Cons:
* Some people assume we are arrogant or snobby.
* It's easier for people to take advantage of us.
* People think we don't have much to say (which is sometimes true).
* We're really familiar with the question, "WHAT? I CAN'T HEAR YOU!" and the demand, "SPEAK LOUDER, HUN!"
* We have trouble flirting.
* Two words: stage. fright.
* We don't stand up for ourselves 100% of the time.

The bottom line: it's okay if you're shy. Embrace your inner timid side and shout, "I'm shy and proud!" Actually scratch that—whisper it.

Are you shy?

Related post: Auntie SparkNotes: Stage Fright