Feeling anxiety around certain people while being outgoing around others is a common experience and can be influenced by various factors. Here are some possible reasons why you might feel this way:
Past Experiences: Previous interactions and experiences with specific individuals can influence how you feel around them. If you've had negative or uncomfortable encounters with certain people in the past, it can create anxiety when you interact with them again.
Social Compatibility: People have different personalities, interests, and communication styles. You might feel more at ease and outgoing around individuals with whom you share common interests or who have a similar communication approach.
Social Expectations: Sometimes, we put undue pressure on ourselves to impress or meet specific expectations when interacting with certain people. This pressure can lead to anxiety, especially if you feel the need to appear a certain way or fear judgment.
Perceived Power Dynamic: Anxiety can arise when there's a perceived power dynamic or authority figure involved. You might feel more reserved and anxious around people you perceive as having higher status or authority over you.
Social Anxiety: If you have social anxiety, you may feel more anxious in certain social situations or around specific people. Social anxiety is a condition characterized by a persistent fear of social situations and being negatively judged or evaluated by others.
Comfort Zones: People tend to have social comfort zones, which can be influenced by factors like familiarity, trust, and mutual understanding. You may feel more outgoing around individuals with whom you share a strong bond or feel comfortable.
Emotional Triggers: Some people may trigger past emotional wounds or traumas, leading to anxiety and discomfort when interacting with them.
Introversion vs. Extroversion: If you identify as an introvert, you might find it more draining to be outgoing in certain social situations, especially around people who drain your energy. In contrast, you may feel more energized and outgoing in environments where you feel more comfortable and accepted.
It's important to remember that feeling different levels of comfort and anxiety around different people is entirely normal and human. Relationships and social dynamics are complex, and our emotions and behaviors can vary depending on the specific context and individuals involved.
If you find that your anxiety significantly affects your ability to function or enjoy social interactions, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your anxiety and develop strategies to cope with it effectively.