thanks Josie,
my fear of crowded enclosed spaces is more connected not being able to exit easily if I want to. I sit in a seat or stand in a way that I feel I can leave if my anxiety gets too much. if I'm there with someone else, it can be less anxiety inducing.
to carry on a conversation with someone can be anxiety inducing if the flow doesn't magically come. I can usually have a pleasant conversation with someone but can easily discouraged if the other person is rude or indifferent. I have to manage negative thoughts and fall back onto the belief that their response shouldn't affect me too much.
I used to fear the spotlight but participating in Toastmasters reduced that plus I have practiced performing music in front of people. I can still suffer anxiety if I feel I am being judged negatively by an audience. Again, managing the negative beliefs is the method I need to employ.
