[sliver]

Originally Posted by Nelson

Hey, I know exactly the problem you're having - I had it until about eigth grade and was largely the result of homeschooling.

The truth with confidence and being outgoing is that its like most things in this world - it requires practice. There is no secret to being more outgoing you just have to get off your behind and do it.

If you are really, realy shy then you can start by going to the mall. Talk to salespeople and clerks, and joke around - they can't really reject you because that would be bad for business. Plus the mall will get you comfortable around crowds.

Then just gradually go out and meet people. Play by the simple socail rules - Be nice, start a conversation with a compliment, ask questions, be interested in what they are saying. If someone is a jerk to you then tell them to stop being a jerk and go talk to someone else.

The key is to let the other people talk until you feel comfortable to with them. That's the way I've become more outgoing over the years.

I'm not very outgoing but I really should change that and go out and hang around with my friends more.
Thanks for the advice