Such fear can be manifested in many situations ranging from the withholding of personal remarks during an office meeting to the total avoidance of a social gathering. It is not unusual for people from all walks of life working at all levels of competency to experience some degree of social anxiety at some time in their lives. Such is a part of normal living. When social anxiety becomes an unwelcome pattern in life, however, it takes its toll both physically and emotionally.
Anxiety can become a pattern of response to social situations because of a self-reinforcing cycle.
One is afraid to make meaningful social contact, hence, one avoids such contact and in so doing, manages to get temporary relief. Avoidance becomes associated with relief. However, continued avoidance offers no chance to build the confidence to take on future challenges. And so, anxiety becomes a habitual response to social situations. Repeatedly giving up in the face of opportunities leads to lowered self-esteem.