(((((((((( mrsnacho ))))))))))

I can understand the anxiety you are going through. I think when we feel guilty about something we automatically think we need to explain ourselves. We have to understand where that guilt comes from though. Does it come strictly from embarrassment, or from feeling that you have done something wrong? (there could be many other reasons as well)

I'll share with you a situation I was in and how I handled inquiring minds in the work place (and this will work anywhere). Something had happened that was embarrassing to me as well. I was quite upset about it and was having difficulty with the idea of going back to work and worrying about all the questions I would get from people, many of them well-meaning and some of them just plain nosy. I realized that I did NOT have to give anyone an explanation as it truly was none of their business. So I went to work, just like any other day. I was my usual self, held my head high and walked in. Of course, all eyes were on me and that felt a little uncomfy, but I brushed it off and went to my desk. Through the day, many people came to me asking me if I was alright. I told them I was fine, and thanked them for asking. Many of them would then ask me, "What the heck happened?". I answered with the following - "Why do you need to know?". 99% of the people who asked that, stammered and said they really didn't need to know and then walked away. The 1% who pushed it were told that the issue was not up for discussion. And I thanked each one for their concern (whether they truly were concerned or not LOL).

It's scary at first to do this, but what a great feeling of control it can give you in the long run. And it will get easier for you as you move forward and use that question...."Why do you need to know?".

Another option with that same question is to put it in the form of a little joke with a smile - "That info is given on a need to know basis and you don't need to know" and then wink at them LOL. It breaks the seriousness and anxiety you may be feeling but let's folks know they stepped over the line.

Wishing you well!