Shyness

So, this topic spawned from my earlier note about swagger...we sat around and debated for a while about it the misuse and overuse of the word when we came across this discussion. Can someone be shy and have high self-esteem or high self-confidence? I don't think so, but to properly answer this question I think we need to consider a definition of shy. The dictionary defines it as everything from bashful and timid to reluctant and suspicious. Now for the purposes of this debate, I will toss out the existing definitions, because they don't necessarily define precisely enough to today's meaning of the word. My proposed definition is: an overwhelming feeling of unease or uncomfortableness that is sparked by a fear of perception, which results in being more reserved or less outspoken then one normally would. If you disagree, then please feel free to pose your own definition. Now according to my definition, I don't believe that someone could have high self confidence and then be overwhelmed with a fear of perception. I am not going to assume that there are an abundance of people out there like me, who simply have very, very, very little, if any concern for others' opinions. Most people care somewhat, but also if you have high self confidence then will you let other's perception cast doubt over your own perception? For example, I have no problem speaking in front of crowds of people. As we all know I have HIGH HIGH HIGH self esteem! My self perception is that I am a great orator, that I have a captivating charisma and personality, and that I have a presence and voice that while speaking will command attention. Now when I speak in front of others, how they will think about me is not even a thought, definitely not a concern! Now let me state, that being naturally reserved is not the same as being shy. But if you are outgoing then around a larger group of people you aren't yourself, then it isn't reserved it's shy. Saying that you are outgoing, but you are going to be reserved around people you don't know doesn't make sense. If you are only yourself around those you know, then that is more so being comfortable as opposed to being outgoing or outspoken. Who is shy around their own family? Think about it...let me know how you feel!