The one change that worked: I felt self-conscious – until I started complimenting strangers

Every day I try to give a genuine compliment, so if I like someone’s clothes, hair or makeup, I’ll tell them. It has made me more present, confident and at ease talking to people

I’m an ambivert. No, it’s not some made-up personality type. I enjoy spending time with others and socialising, but I need time alone to recharge. Starting conversations and keeping them flowing smoothly have never come naturally to me. I overthink everything: “Am I speaking too much? I haven’t said anything in the past five minutes. Quick, say something. Oh no, I’ve missed my opening. Wait, why did I say that? That was weird.”

These are the thoughts that are constantly swirling in my head mid-conversation, and then I’ll go home, replay it all again and cringe at that one thing I said. I have always been deeply envious of people who can charm and easily work a room. So, in the past year, I’ve set myself a challenge: to compliment a stranger at least once a day – and it has to be genuine.