Why me? Why am I shy? Was I born this way? Who caused this? Mom and Dad? Those bullies who lived down the block? My teachers? My great-grandmother on my father’s side? Or did God say, “Somebody’s got to be shy”—and I got chosen?
It could be any of these (except the last, of course). Read on to explore the reasons why you in particular might be shy—and some things you can do to rewrite your history. If you’re a parent, I’ve included tips on how to determine your baby’s risk for shyness—and how to help your shy child.