11 ways to overcome shyness 4

 10. Identify your social value and strengths. Just because you're not the alpha in the room, have the most booming voice, or get the party started doesn't mean you lack social strengths. Are you a great listener? Do you have an eye for detail? Or is it something that has still not even occurred to you, so sit back for a second. Are you better at observing than most of those around you? Probably. Find what your strengths are and focus on them. 

11. Don't get caught up in labels. For the record, popular people aren't happy. Extroverts aren't necessarily popular or happy and shy people aren't necessarily introverts, unhappy, or cold and aloof. Just as you don't want to be caught up in labels, don't tack them onto anyone else either. 

Bonus: Start a conversation. Remember that awesome project you completed? That mountain you hiked up? That illness you overcame? If you can do all those things, this conversation will be a piece of cake. Add a detail to basic statements. If someone asks you where you live, it's easy for the conversation to stop in a super-awkward, feel-like-you've-failed dead halt. Instead of saying "On Jump Street," say, "On Jump Street, right next to that awesome bakery. "That way, the person has something to comment on, keeping the conversation going. Instead of replying, "Oh, cool." They'll say, "Oh my god, have you tried their chocolate croissants?!"

Smile and make eye contact. A simple smile in the direction of a stranger may brighten your day, and it will brighten theirs too! Smiling is a friendly way to acknowledge others, and it makes a pretty good lead-in to start a conversation with anyone, stranger or friend. You're showing you're harmless, friendly, and wanting to engage.  Introduce yourself to one new person each day. It is often easier to talk with strangers, at least briefly. After all, you may never see them again, so who cares what they think about you? That guy down the street, walking to the bus. Try to make eye contact with him and smile. It's literally 3 seconds of your time! Record your success. Write down your successes. Seeing the progress, you've made is great motivation to keep going. In a few weeks, you'll be amazed at the control you're taking over this, convincing you even more that this thing is doable. Keep up the great work.