Talking to people.

[ShopKeeperTriumphs]

Hello,
I always have anxiety talking to people. Whether it be people I'm one hundred percent comfortable with (my girlfriend, family, etc.) I always think someone else is there listening in, so I stutter, mumble, forget what I am saying, get sidetracked, etc. It's very hard to converse with people with that said reason. I hate how I get so depressed talking to somebody just because I think I sound like a complete idiot, or someone who doesn't care, because I do.

Anyone have a similar predicament, situation, or just some helpful advice?
Thanks.

[Cuchculan]

I can trip over my every word with strangers. Until I get to know them. What you have to understand is that nobody else is listening at all. It is just you are your girlfriend. Practice on her. Even turn it into a game. Like you are in a film. You have your lines to say. Sounds odd. But that is how I get by. I know what I want when I go into a shop. I know what words I have to try and come out with. So I think of acting. Like they are lines from a film. And I have to get them out of my mouth without making a mistake. My own private game. But always remember, taken your time is allowed. You don't have to get every word out in ten seconds. Don't be afraid to pause. To take a deep breath., slow yourself down, and slowly let those words flow. If I rush things I stumble over the words a whole lot more. When I slow myself down, I am more at ease and seem to get by a lot better. There is never any hurry at all. I hope things improve for you.