Shyness is the causeof much unhappiness for a great many people.Shy people are anxious andself-conscious; that is, they are excessively concerned with their own
appearance and actions.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 negatively affect people.Aperson's conception of himself or herself is reflected in the way he or shebehaves, and the way
a person behaves affects other people's reactions.In general, the way peoplethink about themselves has a profound effect on all areas of their lives.
Shy people, having low self-esteem, are likely to be passive and easily influencedby others.They need reassurance that they are doing "the right thing".Shypeople are very
sensitive to criticism; they feel it confirms their feelings of inferiority.Theyalso find it difficult to be pleased by compliment with a statement like thisone, "You're just
saying that to make me feel good.I know it's not true".It is clear thatwhile self-awareness is a healthy quality, overdoing it is harmful.
Can shyness be completely eliminated, or at least reduced? Fortunately, peoplecan overcome shyness with determined and patient efforts in buildingself-confidence.Since
shyness goes hand in hand with a lack of self-esteem, it is important forpeople to accept their weaknesses as well as their strengths.
Each one of us is a unique, worthwhile individual, interested in our ownpersonal ways.The better we understand ourselves, the easier it becomes to liveup to our full
potential.Let's not allow shyness to block our chances for a rich andfulfilling life.

Which of thefollowing statements is true, according to the passage? ____________

A.Shyness helps us to develop our potential

B.Shyness enables us to understand ourselves better

C.Shyness can block our chances for a rich life

D.Shyness has nothing to do with lack of self-esteem