Confronting Your Fears Through Exposure
157exposure, it’s best to practice in a variety of different contexts, places, and situations. 
For example, if you want to be more comfortable making small talk, we recommend that 
you practice with your coworkers, family members, strangers in the elevator, at parties, 
and in as many other situations as possible.
Choose Practices That Are Challenging but  
Not Impossible
You may feel discouraged if while trying a particular practice, you become anxious 
or uncomfortable. There is no need to feel discouraged. In fact, it is helpful for you to 
feel some discomfort during exposure practices. That’s why you are doing the practices 
in the ﬁrst place. Over time, you will begin to feel less anxious. A successful practice is 
one that you complete, regardless of how anxious you feel.
On the other hand, it’s not necessary to choose practices that are completely terrify -
ing or for which you ﬁnd it impossible to stay in the situation. If a situation seems too 
difﬁcult, we encourage you to try something easier. But do try something.
Choose Practices with Minimal Risk
Choose practices in which the likely consequences are minimal, except for a period 
of feeling anxious. For example, if you want to be more comfortable with the possibility 
of seeming foolish or being the center of attention, there are lots of safe practices that 
you can try (for example, walking around with your shirt inside out, telling the cashier 
that you have forgotten your wallet when you reach the front of the grocery line). There 
is no need to take unnecessary risks, such as telling your boss what a jerk he is or yelling 
out a dirty joke at your best friend’s wedding. If you’re not sure about the realistic risks