The Shyness & Social Anxiety Workbook
168Now, can you think of other possible practices that involve public speaking? If so, 
record them in the space below:
Other Practices
Practices Involving Making Small Talk, Casual 
Conversation, and Informal Socializing
Casual conversation and small talk can take place anywhere. The list below provides 
a few examples of situations where you might have the opportunity to practice these 
skills. In addition to planning several large practices per week, you should try to engage 
in several mini-practices throughout the day.
UÊHave friends over for a get-together . For example, invite several cowork -
ers over for dinner or to watch a movie or sports event on TV. Or, have a 
birthday party for a friend or family member. Make sure that you interact 
with your guests! Don’t come up with excuses to avoid them (like serving 
food and drinks to the exclusion of conversation, cleaning up, or washing 
the dishes).
UÊSpeak to strangers on elevators, while waiting in lines, at bus stops, or 
at other public locations . With repeated practice, making small talk will 
become easier. Prolonged exposure works best, so try to talk to many dif -
ferent people over the course of an hour or two to get the most beneﬁt. 
Smile, say hello, and use humor, if appropriate. Although you should be 
prepared for some people to react negatively (remember, other people may 
also be shy or they may be uninterested in making small talk), most people 
will probably react positively.
UÊAsk for directions or for the time . Walk up to a stranger in a mall or store 
and ask what time it is. Or, ask how to ﬁnd a particular location. As men -