Steph, what I've had to learn to do over the years is to act like I'm someone else. I know that sounds bizarre, but I've really become quite the actress. I don't LIKE being someone I'm not, but I've realized that when I do it, it prevents me from appearing like some sort of embarrassed freak.
BTW, I SO do not mean that you're this way.
I used to be painfully shy, and couldn't stand up in public (or even speak in front of more than one person at a party) without stammering and turning red. And feeling sick to my stomach.
I've learned that "gritting my teeth and faking it" is far less stressful than, as I said, appearing as a freak who people would feel sorry for.
I'm now actually able to stand up in court on a regular basis (volunteer organization I work for) and speak in front of judges/prosecutors/etc with barely a flinch.
In fact, it took me an entire year to convince my psychiatrist that I'm a complete introvert. He thought I was an outgoing extrovert! I even fooled HIM!
So,
my advice is, FAKE IT!! Pretend you're one of those people who can readily and graciously accept praise, gifts, etc. The more you do it, the easier it will become.
You can do this, sweetie!
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