Quick Reset
- Give your mochi a squeeze and remind yourself: almost everyone here feels a bit nervous too.
Easy Conversation Starts
- Mini compliments. “Loved your question in that session.”
- Small talk. “Long day yet?” or “Been here before?”
- Shared activity. Join a game night or group event.
- Walk & talk. “Want to walk to the next session?”
Body Tools
- Slow exhales to calm your nervous system.
- Mints to activate trigeminal → vagus pathways.
Helpful Research
- People like you more than you think. The “liking gap” shows we underestimate others’ positive impressions.
- Nervous looks signal warmth, not weakness. People empathize more than they judge.
Social anxiety thoughts check-in
Check the thoughts that show up most often when you’re networking, socializing, or trying to be friendly or assertive.