I was so scared when I started my most current job that I had to trick myself into being less shy. 
New people make me so nervous.
Me too! I sat in the parking lot for an hour reading a self help book just to be able to 'fake it' by seeming outgoing.
I have never tried one of those. Did it help?
Surprisingly, yes! It had quick little stories of people overcoming difficult social situations. It must have been good for me because I am still there 10 years later. haha
Well that's pretty cool. You should own the joint by now.