How do I overcome the fear of cashiers?

Remember that they might be just as anxious as you are. Both of you are strangers to each other, and it can be discomforting to meet new people.

I didn't understand how to until I became a cashier one day. While it may seem like a cashier is watching your every move and judging silently, they're most likely just thinking about when their break is, or how much longer until they get off of work. It's also important to note that humans are natural energy matchers, and most are empathetic and might understand being anxious about a fear of cashiers too!!

As a cashier all we want to do is help you! It is our job to give you the best experience and often we are just as scared as you having to speak to so many people we dont know everyday. Unlike the customer we are the focus behind the cashier so being shy is not an option for us. We are just as nervous as you if not more and some might not seem like it because its our daily job and we've gotten used to it!

Cashiers have a job to do. You have something you want from them. In order to rid yourself of the fear of cashiers, remind yourself that they're only doing their job and that talking to them is a necessary step for getting what you want

That's a tough one! I personally have a fear of walking into a store and leaving without purchasing anything. I'm deathly afraid of someone thinking I've come into the store and stolen something. So I'm awkwardly keeping my hands visible and not reaching for my pockets. It's weird.. I know.. :D There are more thorough resources available on dealing with this fear; however, I'll share some quick tips that I believe might be helpful (I'm using my background that I've gathered here on 7Cups to answer this). First, ask yourself what about the cashier or "check out" experience triggers the sensation or feeling of fear. Worded differently, what are you afraid of? To identify the cause, you may try speaking to a trusty friend or writing your thoughts down in a journal. Once you've identified some elements (or at least made an attempt), put together a goal and an action plan. (See below for example). Remember there are exercises available online (including on 7Cups) to help with this anxiety (including "Challenging Your Thoughts" and "Overcoming Avoidance"). EXAMPLE: Goal: I want to practice interacting with a cashier briefly. Commitment: I'm going to say hello to the cashier when I walk into the store. Obstacles: My fear that they'll think I'm dumb or weird might stop me before I even walk into the store. Solution to Overcome Obstacles: I'll bring a friend! Reward: I'm going to buy myself a candy bar because I put myself out there and accomplished my goal (and because I love chocolate/candy bars).

Cashiers are normal people just like you and me (which might sound patronising but it's true!) Cashiers have a job to do and see tens, if not hundreds, of people a day so don't think that they are focusing on you as an individual. Just think, if you fumble with your money or stutter when talking to them, they encounter people from all walks of life all of the time so won't focus on you alone. It might help to have your money in your hand before you go to the counter as it may calm your nerves. You may never see that person ever again so it doesn't particularly matter how the encounter goes. Just remember - they're normal people too!

I was a cashier for a bit as well as a TV salesman. Realize that cashiers are just people. We probably really hate where we are in life at the moment as it's not exactly a glorified place to work. Most of them will just say "Hi." and continue scanning items. It's up to you if you want to continue a convo from there.

Realize that cashiers are people just like you. They have made mistakes and gone through things in the past just like you have. And here's something that always helps me. "In 20 years from now, is this going to affect me?" And the cashier is just there to help you, not inflict anxiety.

One way is try to ignore the cashier when checking out. after awhile start looking at them. then after that try talking to them.

first of all, they're not there to harm you in any way, be aware of the fact that they don't pose any danger to you and they're just doing their job. you can talk as little as you please and when the cashier has finished scanning your stuff you can pack your purchases and leave. if you flash them a smile or say goodbye when you leave, they might do the same for you and both of you have a nicer day. remember that they're all just people, working and living their lives without expecting anything from you. no worries, you got this :)