I used to be extremely self conscious, and as a result, aware of how others may perceive me. My anxiety was very high, confidence very low. Now it’s opposite. I’m extremely confident and not very anxious. I’m a very direct person. I try to use tact as much as possible when correcting people (I don’t mean in a personality conflict. I mean literally just instructing someone in a way that would be more efficient.) I say yes sir, yes ma’am, please, thank you, and try to be very friendly. I was raised in Kensington, Philadelphia (One of the worst neighborhoods on the east coast.) And despite being a pretty white boy, you can tell I’m from the inner city. I really don’t try to put on a “tough guy” image. Honestly I do the opposite, I try to put on an image of being friendly and approachable. My size has something to do with it, I’m 6’3 220 and very active in the gym. Despite my best efforts, people tell me I come off very aggressive. Not in a raging lunatic throw a temper tantrum kind of way, but “Hurt you very calmly then get back to what I was doing”. Women tell me I’m very direct in how I approach them. Not in a sexual way, just in a very confident unexpected way. Some like it, some find it intimidating. I really try to keep this mind, because when I actually WANT to confront people, apparently that air I give off is that that person will be physically assaulted, even when I mean absolutely no harm and use my manners.
Are you aware of how you come off to other people?
