Shyness is nice and
Shyness can stop you
From doing all the things in life
You’d like to
–Ask, by The Smiths
I was a big fan of the 80s British rock group, The Smiths. The lead singer, Morrissey, was a notoriously flamboyant introvert. He preferred writing lyrics alone, but could be outlandish in drawing attention to himself on stage. The Smiths were known for pairing pleasant melodies with brooding lyrics.
In considering titles for our blog, Barb and I brainstormed many ideas. One evening, I remembered The Smiths’ song, Ask, a surprisingly upbeat recording that describes shyness as a positive thing.
Barb and I met in graduate school. We had both been counseled by our professors about being “too quiet.” In meeting each other, we found acceptance of our more gentle dispositions. On our first date, we listened to The Smiths.
Shyness IS nice. Most shy people are sensitive and caring AND that very shyness may prevent them from speaking up and sharing ideas the world needs to hear.
This site is dedicated to giving shy people a place to be heard, and spreading the word about the value of quiet, sensitive people.
Greg Markway, July 2011
Barbara Markway, Ph.D., is a psychologist and author. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets, including: the New York Times, Washington Post, Today Show, and Good Morning America. Her first book, Dying of Embarrassment, has been named one of the most scientifically valid self-help books in a study published in Professional Psychology, Research and Practice.
Greg Markway, Ph.D., is a psychologist and author. He has co-authored three self-help books with Barbara, as well as being featured on the Today Show and in Men's Health, Health, and many other popular publications. He has also been a featured presenter at conferences on social anxiety and selective mutism.
What a terrific idea! Best of luck to you and Barb in this newest venture. You have much to share. Thanks for your willingness to do it!