[originaltext] Shyness is the cause of much unhappiness for a great many peo

Shyness is the cause of much unhappiness for a great many people. Shy people are anxious and self-conscious; they are excessively concerned with their own appearance and action. Worrisome thoughts are constantly occurring in their minds: What kind of impression am I making? Do they like me? Do I sound stupid? Am I wearing unattractive clothes?
    It is obvious that such uncomfortable feelings must affect people unfavorably. A person’s self-concept is reflected in the way he or she behaves, and the way a person behaves affects other people’s reactions. In general, the way people think about themselves has a deep effect on all areas of their lives.
    Shy people, having low self-esteem, are likely to be passive and easily influenced by others. They need reassurance that they are doing "the right thing. " Shy people are very sensitive to criticism. It makes them feel inferior. They are difficult to be pleased by praise, because they believe they are unworthy of it. A shy person may respond to praise with a statement like this one: " You’re just saying that to make me feel good. I know it’s not true. "
    Can shyness be completely got rid of or at least reduced fortunately? People can overcome shyness with patient effort in building self-confidence. Since shyness goes hand in hand with lack of self-esteem, it is important for people to accept their weaknesses as well as their strengths. For example, most people would like to be an A student in every subject. It is not fair for them to label themselves inferior because they have difficulty in some areas. People’s expectations of themselves must be realistic. Living on the impossible leads to a sense of inadequacy.
    Each of us has his or her own characteristics. We are interesting in our own personal ways. The better we understand ourselves, the easier it becomes to live up to our chances for a rich and fulfilling life.
    Questions 20 to 22 are based on the recording you have just heard.
    20. What do shy people tend to care about excessively?
    21. How do shy people feel about praise?
    22. What do we learn from the talk about shy people?