How can I become less shy?

This problem is common to many people so you are not alone and by the way I suffered greatly from shyness which can be quite painful. As regards what to do there are many things, the most important of which is to start deciding that you want to improve and then set yourself small targets to achieve. For example, make a list of small challenges you can face which will take you forward. If you are shy, making a speech is too great a leap but you can break it down, maybe first step ask a question in a small group, speak up in certain situations, talk to a certain person etc.

Confidence is huge part of the problem of shyness. it is built upon lack of confidence. Please click to sign up for the free self confidence course and consider getting the CD Trainer - more info here:

http://www.more-selfesteem.com/self_confidence_CD.htm 

also take a look at these pages:

http://www.more-selfesteem.com/overcoming_shyness_tips.htm
http://www.more-selfesteem.com/assertiveness_training.htm 

hope this helps!

I was also a fearful and shy type. There is only one way to overcome your shyness and that is to challenge your fear bit by bit. Write every success you experience daily and start now.

One of the most difficult problems about changing yourself or your behaviour is the comments from other people who make fun of you. Decide that you won't listen to them and if possible get away from them and be around someone who will support you (if there is someone like this) if not a professional is really helpful for this reason. I too have beaten shyness and understand what a serious problem it is! If you would like to talk to a professional then I recommend online counseling. I have written a page to explain the many benefits of online counseling - click to read about it and contact a highly qualified professional who can help you.

Once people think of you as shy they label you and it takes a very long time for them to change their minds. Likewise, you need to change your own mind about yourself. The only way to beat shyness is to face situations which make you feel shy. Gradually face them and write a diary recording your successes. I have a page about overcoming shyness here: www.more-selfesteem.com/overcoming_shyness_tips.htm  please ask if you have any questions. Also you can sign up for the free self confidence course here:
www.more-selfesteem.com/http://www.self-confidence.co.uk/?463