How to Lose One's Inhibitions

Inhibitions can be a very good thing. Imagine if everybody spoke their mind all the time and if people acted on their impulses. Indeed, a characteristic of at least one major mental illness, bi-polar disorder, is loss of inhibitions. But, for some people, being too inhibited can seriously blight their lives. A person who can never let himself go may miss out on opportunities, friendships and, not least, fun. If you feel that you are too inhibited, you may have a good idea of the reason for this, and it is likely related to your upbringing. You may not aim to be the life and soul of the party, but there are steps you can take to become freer and less inhibited.

Instructions

• 1

  Explore the reasons for your inhibitions. You may always have been the quiet, reserved member of a large, boisterous family, for instance. Alternatively, your parents may also have been inhibited and may have brought you up not to draw attention to yourself. If you can develop an understanding of how you became inhibited, this may help you take steps to change this.

• 2

  Set small goals for yourself. If you always wait for someone else to initiate a conversation, tell yourself that you will start talking to a person at work or at a social event. You do not have to launch into a serious debate, but if you just manage to have a little conversation, this will open your mind to greater possibilities.

• 3

  Do something that you would not normally do. This can also be liberating. Take part in a sponsored walk or go to an event at your local library. Vary your routine, even in a small way, such as taking a different route to work. People who are very inhibited tend to take refuge in routine, and leaving that behind, just a little, can help you to have adventures.

• 4

  Explore your creative side. This, for some people, may be art; for others, creative writing, drama or dance. It is often easier to let go of inhibitions in a different world, such as a theater or studio.