Society tells that us that being shy is a fault, but Annie Ridout says it’s a gift. Shy: How being quiet can lead to success teaches us how to embrace this misjudged attribute, instead of trying to fix it.

Society tells that us that being shy is a fault, but Annie Ridout says it’s a gift. Shy: How being quiet can lead to success teaches us how to embrace this misjudged attribute, instead of trying to fix it.

Most of us have some understanding of shyness. From birthday parties as children to office Christmas parties as adults, from an old friend’s wedding to a group presentation, we’ve all experienced it in some form or other. Shyness may be ever-present or it may come and go.

Partly genetic, partly environmental, shyness is largely viewed as a character flaw, something that needs to change, but why is no-one talking about the benefits of being shy? For example, shyness usually equates to being an excellent listener, considerate speaker and thoughtful observer.
 
Interweaving personal experience with expertise from clinical psychologists, Annie explores why shyness affects some more than others, and offers tried-and-tested tools to help the reader deal with elements of shyness that can feel debilitating. Shy recasts our understanding of this often-misunderstood attribute, celebrating it as a pathway rather than a barrier to success and happiness.

Praise for Shy
‘Not only is Shy a reassuringly relatable read for any of us who have ever felt lacking in confidence, it's also a practical and galvanising guide to helping you harness the power of shyness, particularly in an increasingly digital world.’ Rosamund Dean, Deputy Editor, Grazia

‘In a noisy, opinionated world where putting yourself out there is seemingly the only way to succeed, Annie offers a reassuring celebration of shyness and the benefits it can bring us, alongside a practical guide to how to overcome the ways in which it can hold us back.’ Laura Whateley, best-selling author of MONEY: A USER’S GUIDE

Praise for The Freelance Mum
'So many women find their careers cut off at the elbow as soon as they become pregnant – this book sounds like it could be really helpful for navigating the disconnect between family and work' Eva Wiseman, OBSERVER

‘This is an area that sorely needs innovation and creative solutions and Annie’s website The Early Hour shows she’s exactly the woman for the job. I’m sure her book is going to become a real bible for freelancers and anyone who’s doing the daily juggle’ Brigid Moss, RED

‘An invaluable tool for anyone considering making the leap to freelancing’ STYLIST

‘Essential reading for all working parents…Read it and take the plunge’ GUARDIAN