Shrink For The Shy Guy

Do Nice Guys Really Finish Last? We've all heard the phrase, nice guys finish last, but is it really true? In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz dives into the hidden costs of being too nice—how people-pleasing can hold you back in relationships, career, and life. But don’t worry, the solution isn’t to become a jerk. Instead, you’ll discover the real opposite of nice: authenticity. Learn how to express yourself boldly, set boundaries without guilt, and step out of the nice cage so you can stop finishing last and start living fully. If you’re ready to break free from the fear of upsetting others and claim your confidence, tune in now!   --------------------------------------------------------------- You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Nice guys finish last.” But is it really true? What does it mean for you? Are you doomed if you’re too nice? Isn’t being nice a good thing? If you’ve ever wondered about the impact of people-pleasing on your life, you’re in the right place. In today’s post, we’ll dive deep into the origins of this phrase and, more importantly, how being overly nice may actually be holding you back in life. I’ll share with you some powerful insights and actionable steps to stop pleasing others at the expense of your own happiness, so you can start living more boldly and authentically. The Real Cost of Being "Nice" Being nice might sound like a virtue, but when it’s rooted in fear of rejection and disapproval, it can actually harm your relationships, career, and even your health. Niceness isn’t the same as kindness. Kindness is about genuinely caring for others, but niceness is driven by a desire to avoid conflict or rejection at any cost. This people-pleasing behavior can leave you feeling disconnected from yourself, burned out, and ultimately, overlooked by others. “Niceness is not kindness; it’s fear. Fear of being rejected, judged, or abandoned. When you live in fear, you end up losing yourself.” If you’ve ever said “yes” when you really wanted to say “no,” you know exactly what I mean. This habit of putting others’ needs above your own comes at a price — one that often leads to frustration, resentment, and even physical symptoms like burnout. The Myth of "Nice Guys Finish Last" The phrase “nice guys finish last” originated in the world of sports, when Leo Durocher, a baseball manager, claimed that being overly nice was detrimental to success. The idea was simple: in competitive environments, the nicest person is often the one who gets passed over or overlooked. But what does that mean for you in your everyday life? Being nice out of fear doesn’t just hurt you in sports; it’s a pattern that shows up in every part of life. Whether it’s at work, in relationships, or in social situations, excessive niceness can make you feel like you’re finishing last. You might be overlooked, undervalued, or even taken advantage of because you haven’t learned to assert your needs, wants, and boundaries. Breaking Free from the "Nice" Cage Here’s the good news: You can break free. The opposite of being nice isn’t about becoming a jerk or a narcissist; it’s about being authentically you. It’s about expressing your true thoughts, setting boundaries, and confidently saying “no” when you need to. “The opposite of being nice isn’t being mean, it’s being authentic. You don’t need to please everyone to win in life. You need to please yourself first.” In my upcoming event, Not Nice Live, we’ll dive into how you can shed the pattern of people-pleasing and start living in alignment with who you truly are. We’ll explore powerful tools and practices to help you break free from the cage of niceness. You’ll gain clarity on why you’ve fallen into this pattern, how it impacts you, and most importantly, how to start shifting it during the event — and carry those changes forward into your life. The Permission to Be Bold Imagine a life where you confidently say no when you need to, ask for what you truly want, and express your feelings without fear of judgment. That’s the power of reclaiming your authenticity. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but with consistent practice and the right support, you’ll start to feel a sense of freedom and empowerment. “The true cost of staying nice is the regret of not living fully. The cost is a life that’s out of alignment with who you are meant to be.” I know it may sound like a far-off dream, but this is within your reach. You can step out of the shadows of people-pleasing and step into the light of being unapologetically yourself. The best part? You don’t have to do it alone. Action Step: Start Reclaiming Your Rights Today As a first step, start by giving yourself permission to do one thing you’ve been holding back on. Maybe it’s saying “no” to an invitation you don’t want to accept, or expressing your true feelings about something that’s been bothering you. Write it down, say it aloud, and practice it every day until it feels natural. The more you practice, the more you’ll internalize this new way of being. And I promise you, it will change your life. Remember, it’s not about being rude or inconsiderate; it’s about showing up as your true self, without fear of judgment. If you're ready to take your boldness to the next level, I invite you to join me for Not Nice Live in March. The event is virtual, so you can attend from anywhere in the world, and we’re offering a special early-bird price right now. Don’t miss out — this is your chance to step into the life you truly want, without the guilt.

How much influence do you really have over your life? More than you think. In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz explores the direct connection between your confidence and the results you create. Whether it’s in social interactions, your career, or personal growth, hesitation and fear hold you back while boldness and self-trust open doors. Through a powerful real-life example, you’ll see how the way you think shapes your experiences and the hidden ways self-doubt limits your success. Are you playing to win, or just trying not to fail? Tune in to discover how shifting your mindset can radically change your results.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   What if I told you that the key to changing your life, whether it's in your career, relationships, or personal goals, lies in how you show up with confidence? No, I’m not suggesting that you can control everything or that if you just get your confidence “right,” you’ll always get what you want. But here’s the truth: Your confidence has more power over your outcomes than you realize. Let’s break down why this is, how it works, and how you can start taking control of your life right now. The Fear That Holds You Back Here’s what most people don’t want to admit: Confidence is a choice, and often, we choose to avoid it. Why? Because of fear. We fear that we’re not enough—not smart enough, not capable enough, not lovable enough. And when we operate from this place of fear, we avoid the things that challenge us, we make excuses, and we often stay stuck in our comfort zones. You may have told yourself stories like, “I don’t want to talk to that person; they probably won’t like me anyway,” or “I shouldn’t try that because I might fail and look stupid.” These stories might feel real, but they’re just that—stories. And they keep you from stepping into your true power and potential. How Confidence Shapes Your Actions Let me share a story to illustrate this. Recently, I watched my son play his first basketball game of the season. He’s a tall, scrappy 11-year-old who loves the game and plays with enthusiasm at home. But when he got to the game, he froze. His body language said it all—his shoulders were slumped, his arms hung low, and he wasn’t trying to make plays. He was paralyzed by the fear of missing shots or messing up. I asked him what was going on, and through tears, he admitted, “No one passes to me.” The truth was, his inner critic—his own “Poopy Coach”—was running the show. His body was unconsciously signaling that he wasn’t ready to play, and as a result, his teammates avoided passing him the ball. This is the same pattern that happens in life when we let our inner critic take over. When you play it safe and avoid risk, you’re not just holding back in one area of life—you’re restricting yourself in every area. The more you fear judgment, failure, or rejection, the more you limit the outcomes you could achieve. The Key to Transforming Your Confidence Now, here’s where things get interesting: confidence isn’t about eliminating fear—it’s about being willing to take action despite it. It’s about saying, “Yes, I’m scared. But I’m still going to try.” For my son, I helped him see that missing a shot doesn’t define him. I suggested that he try to take more shots in the next game, even if they didn’t go in. The goal wasn’t to make every shot; the goal was to get comfortable with failure—because each time he takes a shot, win or lose, his confidence grows. This is where you can start to make the same shift in your life. Stop focusing on avoiding failure and start focusing on making progress. It's not about perfection—it’s about showing up and doing your best. Take More Shots in Your Life So, here’s your action step: What shots can you take this week? What risks are you avoiding? Is it speaking up in a meeting? Is it reaching out to someone you’ve been afraid to talk to? Is it stepping up and taking charge of your career or relationships? The next time you feel the urge to hold back, ask yourself, “What would I do if I had the confidence to act?” Then, take that action—even if it’s uncomfortable. Your confidence grows each time you act despite fear. And most importantly, remember: If you don’t succeed, it doesn’t mean you’re a failure. It means you’re learning. Confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about embracing the journey and trusting that with each step, you’re getting better, stronger, and more capable. Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Take Control The truth is that your confidence is the key to your success. It’s not a magic fix, and it’s not about avoiding discomfort. But if you’re willing to show up, take the shots, and keep going, you’ll find that the outcomes you want in life are closer than you think. So, step up. Own your confidence. And watch as you start to control the outcomes in your life. Until we speak again, may you have the courage to be who you are, and to know deep down, that you are awesome.

Have you ever felt trapped by self-doubt or overwhelmed by negative thoughts about yourself? In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz explores how our minds play tricks on us, creating distorted beliefs that undermine our confidence. But what if you could flip the script? Learn why these mental patterns exist, how they hold you back, and what you can do to reclaim your confidence. Whether you’re navigating social anxiety, professional insecurity, or just want to feel more self-assured in your day-to-day life, this episode offers insights that will shift your perspective and help you step into your best self. Tune in now!----------------------------------------------------   Confidence can seem elusive at times, especially when you’re constantly battling inner doubts and self-criticism. But what if I told you that you can trick yourself into feeling high confidence? Now, I know this might sound strange at first. "Tricking yourself?" you might wonder. Isn't that just being fake? Well, let's take a deeper look at how this actually works—and how it can help you break free from the cycle of self-doubt. The Power of "Tricking" Yourself The concept of "tricking yourself" isn't about being dishonest or pretending to be something you're not. Instead, it's about flipping the negative, distorted thoughts you have about yourself and intentionally replacing them with a more positive, empowering narrative. Think of it as a fun little game, where you reprogram your brain to believe in your capabilities, even when your inner critic tells you otherwise. If you’re skeptical about this approach, consider this: We’re already tricking ourselves every day. Most of us are walking around with an internal narrative that tells us we’re inadequate, unlikable, or just not good enough. These thoughts aren't grounded in reality—they're just distorted beliefs we’ve bought into. So why not "trick" yourself into the opposite? Why We Do It: The Safety Police There’s a part of us that keeps us safe from discomfort—the "safety police" inside. It wants to protect us from potential pain and failure, so it distorts our reality to prevent us from taking risks. This is why we might assume that we're awkward, unworthy, or destined to fail in social situations. The safety police uses this distorted thinking to keep us from putting ourselves out there. But by tricking ourselves into believing that we are worthy and capable, we bypass this fear and begin to act with confidence. Real-Life Example: The Power of Perception Let me share a story from one of my clients. He and his friends were at a club, dancing, and he felt extremely self-conscious. He imagined that everyone around him thought he was awkward and uncomfortable. But after the night ended, he casually asked someone he had danced with if they thought it was awkward. To his surprise, she said it was great! That moment clicked for him. All the negative thoughts he’d had were simply made-up stories, and once he let go of those fears, he could enjoy the moment without the burden of self-doubt. This is how our minds work: we create stories, usually negative ones, about our abilities and how others perceive us. The trick is to flip the script and start making up positive, empowering stories instead. How to Put It Into Action Identify a Negative Story: Think about a situation where you typically feel insecure or self-conscious—maybe it’s speaking up at meetings, going on a date, or trying something new. Flip the Script: Now, reframe that situation. Instead of imagining how awkward or unlikable you are, make up a story where everything goes smoothly. For example, instead of thinking, "I’ll probably mess this up," tell yourself, "I’m confident and capable. I’m going to do great!" Practice It Regularly: The more you practice this technique, the easier it will become to automatically think in a positive, empowering way. Eventually, you’ll find that these new beliefs start to feel just as true as the old, negative ones. The Takeaway: It’s All Made Up Anyway Here’s the thing: We are always telling ourselves stories—about ourselves and the world around us. Most of the time, those stories are negative, but there’s no rule saying they have to be. You have the power to reframe your inner narrative and make up something that serves you, not something that holds you back. So next time you’re faced with a situation that triggers your self-doubt, remember: It’s all made up anyway. Why not make up a story that helps you feel confident, capable, and worthy of success? You might be surprised at how powerful this simple shift in thinking can be. You can start today. Trick yourself into believing that you are awesome—and watch how quickly your confidence follows.

Insecurities can plague anyone, even the most accomplished individuals. The key to overcoming self-consciousness lies in shifting focus from yourself to those around you. By observing others and engaging genuinely, you can break the cycle of self-doubt and anxiety. Embracing connections rather than perfection fosters true confidence. Additionally, trusting yourself helps you enter a state of flow, enhancing your social interactions. Start small by noticing something unique about someone else, and watch your insecurities fade away.

True self-confidence doesn’t come from looking perfect, saying the right things, or playing a role—it comes from letting yourself be truly seen. In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz reveals the surprising magic ingredient to building lasting confidence: authentic sharing. When you allow yourself to share what’s real—your thoughts, feelings, and experiences—you break down the barriers of fear and self-doubt. Instead of hiding behind a mask, you show up as your true self, and in doing so, you create genuine connection and trust with others. This level of vulnerability isn’t always easy, but it’s where real confidence lives. Start small: share 5% more of your authentic self in your next conversation and notice the difference. If you're ready to claim 2025 as the year you show up fully and boldly, tune in and discover how unveiling yourself can transform your confidence forever.   ----------------------------------------------------------   Are you struggling with self-confidence? It might surprise you to know that the magic ingredient isn’t about changing your appearance, gaining more knowledge, or getting a perfect track record. In fact, it’s something far more powerful—and it’s not about you at all. I’m Dr. Aziz, and in today’s episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, I’ll reveal the counterintuitive secret to building true self-confidence in 2025. The best part? You can start practicing it right now. The Key to True Confidence: Letting Yourself Be Seen The secret to true self-confidence isn’t more self-help tools or tricks. It’s about one thing: sharing. Not just sharing your favorite hobbies or where you’re from, but allowing yourself to be seen and known as you are right now. This means being authentically yourself, even in moments when it feels uncomfortable. I call it “unveiling yourself,” and it’s the key to breaking down barriers in your social life and relationships. When you let others see who you really are, the magic of confidence starts to build, because confidence is not about pretending to be someone else—it’s about fully showing up as the person you truly are. “Intimacy is not about sex. It’s about being seen for who you truly are.” Why We Hide Ourselves—and How to Stop For many, opening up and sharing who we truly are can feel risky. We worry that we’ll be judged, rejected, or misunderstood. Maybe you’ve tried to fit in by playing a role or saying the things you think people want to hear. But here's the truth: playing a role doesn’t build confidence—it breeds anxiety. True confidence comes from showing up authentically and letting people see the real you. When you “unveil” yourself, it’s about being honest about what you’re feeling in the moment. Whether it's vulnerability, anxiety, or joy, when you share that openly, you invite deeper connection. And that’s the essence of confidence. Intimacy is Key A common misconception about intimacy is that it’s tied only to romantic relationships. But intimacy is about true connection, whether it’s with your partner, a friend, or even a stranger. Intimacy comes when you allow someone to see into you, and you do the same for them. Most people aren’t comfortable with this level of intimacy. It’s risky, and it’s not always easy. But the beauty of intimacy is that it strengthens relationships and deepens bonds in a way that surface-level small talk never can. “The more you share, the stronger your connection becomes, and your self-confidence builds with every real interaction.” The Power of Vulnerability When I met my wife Candace, I decided to do things differently. I didn’t want to hide behind any role or act. I wanted to be real, even if it meant feeling vulnerable. Instead of asking what I should say to impress her, I focused on what was true for me and shared that. What I found was shocking: Being vulnerable didn’t push her away. Instead, it drew us closer and built a deeper connection. And, as a bonus, it boosted my confidence because I no longer had to pretend to be someone I wasn’t. Your Action Step for Today It’s time for you to practice unveiling yourself. Start small—pick one relationship in your life and share a little bit more than you normally would. Let yourself be seen and known for who you really are, even if it’s just 5% more than usual. As you practice, you’ll notice something amazing: Not only will your relationships deepen, but your confidence will grow. And the best part? You’re going to feel more authentic and connected than ever before. “When you let go of the need to hide and share your true self, you unlock a powerful, unshakable confidence.” So, are you ready to claim 2025 as the year you step into your authentic self? Practice unveiling yourself, and watch your self-confidence soar. Let me know how it goes!

In this first episode of 2025, Dr. Aziz kicks off the year with a powerful question: Is 2025 going to be your year? While the future holds uncertainty, Dr. Aziz emphasizes that you can still claim this year as yours—not because you can predict every outcome, but because of how you choose to show up in every moment. With humor, insight, and a touch of personal vulnerability, he explores how our mindset, attitude, and willingness to embrace both patience and bold action determine the quality of our experiences, regardless of circumstances. Dr. Aziz shares reflections on the power of claiming your path, leaning into challenges, and adopting a sense of certainty that transcends momentary setbacks. He introduces the concept of being “guided by your future self,” a perspective inspired by his studies with Donny Epstein, the creator of Network Chiropractic. Whether it’s adopting patience, cultivating resilience, or committing to bold actions, Dr. Aziz encourages listeners to anchor themselves in a powerful intention for the year ahead. To wrap up, he invites you to declare aloud (or in your mind, if you’re surrounded by people), “2025 is going to be my year because…” Fill in that blank with your truth, your vision, and your commitment. As challenges inevitably arise, this declaration serves as your north star, keeping you focused and aligned with your goals. Welcome to 2025—let’s make it your year.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------   Welcome to 2025! As we dive into the new year, you might be wondering, Will this year be your year? The truth is, while none of us can predict exactly what the future holds, there’s one thing we can control—how we approach it. I’m Dr. Aziz, and in this episode, I’m challenging you to stop waiting for perfect circumstances and start claiming your power. The truth is, confidence is not about waiting for everything to align perfectly. It’s about choosing to stand strong no matter what life throws your way. The Power of Claiming Your Year You might wonder, how can you say 2025 is going to be your year when you don’t even know what’s coming? Here’s the secret: You don’t need to know. When we let life passively happen to us—waiting for good things to come or trying to avoid bad ones—we’re giving away our power. In this episode, I break down why life is full of uncertainty, and why that can either hold you back or drive you forward. Instead of letting uncertainty create anxiety, use it to fuel your confidence. Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, see them as opportunities for growth. What if everything that happens, good or bad, could be part of your greater plan? The key is to claim your year by focusing on what you’re going to create and how you’re going to show up. Your Confidence is an Inside Job So, how do you make 2025 your year? The first step is realizing that your confidence doesn’t come from external events or circumstances. It’s an inside job. If you tie your sense of worth and happiness to things outside of you—like recognition, success, or approval—you’ll always be at the mercy of external forces. But when you realize that your worth is inherent, that you don’t need others’ approval to validate your existence, everything changes. That’s how you build unshakeable confidence. So, ask yourself: What would 2025 look like if you fully owned your value, no matter what’s happening in the world around you? Adversity is Part of the Journey The reality is, adversity will come. Challenges are inevitable. And just like I learned in my own life and through working with countless others, how you respond to adversity is what defines your success. Instead of viewing setbacks as something to fear or avoid, I encourage you to see them as part of the process. As I shared in my upcoming book Doubtless, uncertainty is not something to fear but to embrace. It’s where all growth and transformation happen. Here’s a powerful action step for you: Take a moment to say out loud, “2025 is going to be my year because...” Let the words flow from you. Maybe it’s because you’re going to show up with more courage. Maybe it’s because you’re going to take bold actions, practice patience, or trust yourself like never before. 2025 is going to be your year—not because the circumstances will be perfect, but because you’re choosing to take control of your response. You’re choosing confidence over fear. You’re choosing to show up no matter what. And that, my friend, is the true key to success. Claim Your Year Now As you move forward into 2025, take it one day at a time. Know that challenges will arise, but you have the tools to face them. With every step you take, no matter how small, you’re moving closer to a more confident version of yourself. In the words of my mentor Donnie Epstein, you are already who you need to be. The future you’re aiming for is already there; it’s just a matter of stepping into it. Embrace that power, and let’s make this your year of confidence and success. Until next time, may you have the courage to be who you are and know, deep down, that you're awesome. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember.

This holiday season, explore the transformative gift of self-acceptance. The discussion emphasizes how we often overlook our own worth despite external successes. Through a touching client story, the importance of shifting from self-criticism to self-affirmation is highlighted. Listeners are encouraged to become their own biggest supporters by offering themselves the praise and love they seek from others. With humor and insight, actionable steps are provided to cultivate inner confidence and embrace self-love.

n this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz delves into a universal and thought-provoking question: Do you talk yourself out of being authentic? Spoiler alert—most of us do. He explores how fear, doubt, and social conditioning can often lead us to hold back who we truly are, whether it's in how we express ourselves, the choices we make, or how we connect with others. Authenticity, as Dr. Aziz explains, isn’t just a feel-good buzzword; it’s a dynamic and evolving practice of aligning with who you are in the minutiae of daily life, in interpersonal relationships, and on a larger, soul-level path. Dr. Aziz shares personal stories, including how he confronted his own hesitations and fears, such as being vulnerable with his father or owning his unique interests and quirks. Through relatable examples, he illustrates the subtle ways we can hold ourselves back—whether by worrying about what others might think, fearing conflict, or simply dismissing the value of sharing ourselves. With warmth and humor, Dr. Aziz offers practical insights into identifying and defying these inner stories, encouraging listeners to step into their authentic selves and take bold, liberating actions that lead to greater self-connection and fulfillment.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Stop Talking Yourself Out of Being Authentic Do you talk yourself out of being authentic? Do you often hold back what you really think, feel, or want to say? If so, you're not alone. Most of us have been there at one point or another. In fact, for many of us, it can become a habitual response to avoid discomfort or judgment from others. But here's the thing: living authentically is one of the most empowering things you can do. And yet, it’s something we often talk ourselves out of. In this post, I’m going to share the common ways we talk ourselves out of authenticity, and how you can shift that habit to step into a more powerful, true version of yourself. Why Authenticity Feels So Good (But Also Scary) Being authentic sounds great in theory, right? The idea of showing up as your true self, without pretending to be something you're not, is incredibly freeing. When you’re truly authentic, you don’t have to hide or put on a mask to gain approval. There’s a sense of freedom that comes with just being you. But authenticity isn't always easy. Sometimes, it feels like a massive risk. It's not just about the small things—like how you dress or what you say. Authenticity also involves living in alignment with your values, making bold decisions in your career or relationships, and even letting go of things that no longer serve you. And to do that, you have to confront your fears head-on. How We Talk Ourselves Out of Being Authentic We all have those moments where we pull back from being our true selves. And it’s often driven by the fear of judgment. Here are a few ways we talk ourselves out of authenticity: Fear of What Others Will Think This is the biggest one. Whether it’s a conversation with friends, coworkers, or family, the question often lingers: What will they think of me if I say this or do that? You might want to wear a certain outfit, express a unique opinion, or share a vulnerable moment, but the fear of judgment holds you back. In some cases, it might even be about people from your past—friends from high school, or a critical family member who still influences your decisions, even though they’re not in your life anymore. Worrying About Disapproval Another way we talk ourselves out of authenticity is by worrying about how we’ll affect others. Maybe you want to share a disagreement, voice a different opinion, or express your true feelings, but you worry it will upset the other person. You might fear that you’ll destabilize the relationship, so you choose to stay quiet instead. This fear of conflict or disapproval can keep you trapped in inauthenticity. Believing It’s Not Worth It Sometimes, we talk ourselves out of authenticity because we think there’s no point. For example, maybe you want to have a deeper conversation with a loved one about your feelings, but you tell yourself, What’s the point? Maybe they won’t understand, or it might cause unnecessary stress. It’s easy to hold back because you don’t think it will make a difference. But this is often just a defense mechanism to avoid vulnerability. The Power of Defying These Stories Here’s the thing: when you challenge these fears, when you defy the stories you tell yourself, you reclaim your power. It's about recognizing when you’re holding yourself back and deciding to do the opposite—whether that’s wearing what you want to wear, sharing an authentic opinion, or stepping into a decision that scares you. Action Step: Start by identifying when you’re talking yourself out of being authentic. Pay attention to the moments when you hold back—whether it's in a conversation, with a friend, or in your day-to-day choices. Then, choose to defy those stories. Take the risk. You might feel vulnerable at first, but over time, you’ll discover the strength that comes with being fully yourself. It’s Worth It: Even if someone judges you or the outcome is uncomfortable, living authentically will always feel better in the long run. You’ll feel more alive, more empowered, and more at peace with who you are. And that’s a life worth living. You Can Be Authentic You don’t have to be perfect at it, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But if you consistently choose to live authentically, you will experience a deeper connection to yourself and others. Start with small steps. Express your opinions. Wear what you want. Share your feelings. And as you do, you'll step into your full potential. Remember, authenticity is a moving target—it evolves with you as you grow. So, keep embracing it, and trust that each step you take is bringing you closer to the real, powerful version of yourself.

In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz dives deep into the concept of social freedom—the ability to be your most authentic self in social situations without fear or inhibition. Social freedom isn’t about achieving one final destination but embracing an ongoing journey of self-expression and courage. Dr. Aziz highlights how shedding the "cage" of social anxiety or niceness allows you to fully express your thoughts, feelings, and individuality in every interaction, from casual conversations to meaningful connections. Dr. Aziz breaks down two distinct paths to achieve social freedom: the 3% Path and the Jump-In Path. The 3% Path focuses on incremental, manageable growth—leaning into your edge by making small, consistent changes, like sharing one more authentic sentence or showing a bit more boldness in each interaction. On the other hand, the Jump-In Path is for those ready to dive headfirst into risk, shedding personas and embracing full authenticity in a powerful leap. Both methods, whether gradual or transformative, guide you toward becoming more expressive, authentic, and unapologetically you. Listen in to discover which approach resonates with your journey and how to set actionable steps to implement these transformative practices in your life.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Are you ready to break free from the grip of fear, self-doubt, and social anxiety? Imagine waking up tomorrow with the confidence to be completely yourself, no matter who you’re around. It’s not just a dream—it’s something you can achieve, and today, I’m going to share two powerful paths to get you there. In this episode, we’re diving into social freedom—the ability to express who you truly are in any situation without fear of judgment or rejection. Whether it’s speaking your truth at work, sharing your thoughts with friends, or simply wearing what feels good to you, social freedom means you get to be you, unapologetically. What Is Social Freedom? Social freedom is all about being yourself in any social context. It's about feeling free to express your thoughts, your ideas, and even your emotions without the constant worry of being judged or rejected. It’s not just about “acting” confident—social freedom comes from truly owning who you are. To give you a simple example, my son, who was nervous about reading his story aloud, almost held back his creativity out of fear. But after a little support and encouragement, he shared his story, and it was a beautiful moment of connection. That’s what social freedom looks like: letting yourself share and fully express who you are. Two Paths to Achieving Social Freedom Now that you know what social freedom is, how do you get there? There are two distinct paths, and each offers a different approach to help you break free from the shackles of social anxiety. 1. The 3% Path: Small but Powerful Steps The 3% path is about gradually expanding your comfort zone by committing to just 3% more authenticity each time you interact. This could mean sharing one more thought, asking for something you normally wouldn’t, or letting your true feelings show in a conversation. The beauty of this path is that it’s manageable and gradual. A 3% shift is small enough to be manageable but impactful enough to create change over time. It’s the power of consistent, incremental progress. Imagine making one small change in every social interaction—over time, these changes will compound, and before you know it, you’ll be in a totally different place socially. 2. The Jump-Off-the-Dock Path: Dive Right In The second path is more drastic—just dive in. This is the “eff it” path. You decide to fully express yourself without holding back, even if it feels uncomfortable. Instead of approaching each interaction with caution and calculation, you just let go and say what’s on your mind. You stop worrying about pleasing everyone and simply focus on being true to yourself. This path requires boldness. It’s like jumping off a dock into the unknown. The first few jumps will be terrifying, but the rewards are immense: freedom, authenticity, and a sense of relief from constantly holding yourself back. You’ll experience more of your true self, and the social anxiety that once held you back will begin to melt away. Which Path Is Right for You? Both paths will lead you to social freedom, but the key is choosing which one resonates most with you right now. The 3% path is great for those who want a slow and steady approach, while the “jump off the dock” path works best for those ready to make a big shift in a shorter time frame. Remember, there’s no wrong way to go about this. What matters most is your willingness to take action, whether it’s small steps or bold leaps. Take Action Now So, which path will you choose? If you’re ready to take action, set a clear intention for how you want to move forward. Will you start small with the 3% path, or are you ready to dive in headfirst? The most important thing is to start. Lean into the discomfort. That’s where the magic happens. If you’re looking for more support on your journey to social freedom, be sure to check out my Mastermind program coming in early 2025. But until then, embrace who you are and know that your true self is enough. You’ve got this!

In this episode of Shrink for the Shy Guy, Dr. Aziz delves into the fourth principle of sanity and victory: Almost Always On My Own Side (AMOS). Building on the previous principles—taking ownership, surrendering to life's flow, and embracing the process—AMOS introduces the idea of being consistently compassionate and supportive toward yourself. Dr. Aziz explores the concept of self-compassion as a transformative tool, helping you to let go of self-criticism and cultivate a nurturing relationship with yourself. He draws on both personal experience and years of clinical research, illustrating how shifting from self-attack to self-support can profoundly impact your confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Aziz emphasizes that being on your own side is not just about boosting self-esteem or acknowledging your worth when things go well. Instead, it's about offering yourself kindness and empathy, especially when you face setbacks or challenges. He provides actionable steps to practice AMOS in daily life, including simple yet powerful questions like, “What would I do or say if I were truly on my own side right now?” Whether you’re new to the concept or already practicing it, this episode offers fresh insights and practical tools to deepen your self-compassion and unlock greater confidence. Tune in to discover how to step into a more aligned and supportive relationship with yourself.-------------------------------------------------------------------------   Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive deep into the fourth principle of sanity and victory—a concept that can truly transform your confidence. If you’ve been following along, you already know the first three principles: I am the captain of my ship—taking full ownership of your life. Surrender is the ultimate life skill—accepting that you can’t control everything, but you can control how you respond. The process is the purpose—embracing the journey rather than obsessing over the end goal. If you’re feeling intrigued, then the next principle will change the way you see yourself, forever. It’s called Almost Always On My Own Side (OMOS). What Does "Almost Always" Mean? At its core, this principle is about learning to be on your own side. It’s about treating yourself as you would a close friend—compassionately, with understanding, and without judgment. You’re probably familiar with the term "self-esteem," which refers to how much you value yourself. High self-esteem is about believing you bring value to the world; low self-esteem, on the other hand, is when you feel like you have nothing to offer. But what happens when you don’t feel valuable, especially after making a mistake or when you’re in the process of learning something new? This is where self-compassion comes in. Unlike self-esteem, which is dependent on how well you perform, self-compassion is unconditional. It’s not about being perfect or achieving greatness; it’s about acknowledging your struggles and treating yourself with kindness, regardless of the outcome. What Happens When You're Not On Your Own Side? Imagine being constantly followed around by someone who critiques everything you do. They point out every mistake, call you stupid, and tell you that you're not good enough. You wouldn’t tolerate this behavior from someone else, so why do we allow this internal critic to rule our lives? For many of us, this critic becomes our default mode. We spend our days beating ourselves up, never allowing room for compassion or understanding. The truth is, this is insanity—it’s a toxic pattern that drains our energy and holds us back from living fully. But when we practice being on our own side, we begin to shift from self-attack to self-support. We stop judging ourselves harshly and start lifting ourselves up with compassion, understanding that we are enough just as we are. The Power of Practicing OMOS When you begin to practice being on your own side, something amazing happens: You start to shift how you approach life’s challenges. Instead of hiding from difficulties, you embrace them as opportunities for growth. This change in perspective is incredibly freeing, and it can radically alter your confidence. Why This Principle Is Key to Your Confidence So why is being on your own side so essential for building confidence? Because confidence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about embracing your humanity, mistakes and all. You need the courage to face your fears and take risks, even when things don’t go perfectly. When you’re on your own side, you develop the strength to keep moving forward—no matter how many setbacks you face. Take Action Today Now that you understand the power of being on your own side, it’s time to put this principle into action. Start by asking yourself: How on my own side am I today? Can you treat yourself with kindness and compassion, even in moments of struggle? To take it a step further, think about one area of your life where you’ve been critical of yourself. Maybe it's your work, your appearance, or your relationships. Now, instead of criticizing yourself, show compassion. Acknowledge your struggles, give yourself some grace, and move forward with kindness. If you're ready for more transformation and support in this journey, check out my Unstoppable Confidence Mastermind, where we take principles like OMOS and apply them to real-life challenges, helping you build lasting, unshakable confidence. Remember, you’re awesome, and you deserve to be on your own side. Start practicing today, and watch how your life begins to transform.