I need to be more confident in myself, how do I do that?

Be more assertive, also stop caring what people think, especially when you know yourself you're great. Just go out there and talk, to anyone like you known them for years, I can have a conversation with a stranger I just met and laugh and joke like he's a great friend. it's not hard. once you don't give a crap about other people's opinions.

You need to build self worth. Do this by building value in yourself that exists independent of any other person. Maybe volunteer, help people. Learn something, pick up a hobby you're proud of. If you're so interesting that people can't help but ask about you, you'll get over your shyness without having to initiate conversations. Develop yourself and try not to focus on how other people perceive you.

Talk, have fun, screw what other people think. If people think you are rude because you don't talk, then try talking, who cares if you say something stupid. Listen to people talk and you will hear a lot of stupid things come out of their mouths, so just go slow and try talking.

I've been shy since I've been a kid. But more towards the end of high school and in the beginning of college, I've let my real side show. The important thing is not to let what others say get to you. If you have a talent, or hobbie that your proud of (mine is art), let your real self show when people compliment you because they're interested in you and what you do. Once you let your real self through when you meet people, they get to see the real you and won't think things like you're rude or anything. Usually, if you have a good group of friends that know you well, let out who you are around them, and then gradually start to let your true colors show through with other people. Also, if there is a guy that you like, letting them see this side when you talk to them increases their interest in you. Guys like sweet, nice girls. Just be yourself, and don't worry about other people!!! Hope that helped!

Wow! This is exactly my problem right now, and I was just going to post this question! Very good question, I hope people answer soon.

I used to be like that and it's hard to make friends like that. Now that I am more social and less insecure, I realized that there is nothing to be afraid of. So what if you meet someone new and you say something stupid, that's what makes us human, and these are people who don't know you, so what is the worst that could happen?