How do you go from being “Shy” to being “Outgoing”?

You pretty much described me 3 years ago. When I wantrd to be more outgoing I just started to try to find new hobbies and activities that gave myself diversity, but also put me in a place to meet new people. It can be as simple as joining a club at school, or to just going out to a new place and do something you have never done before. I found going to parties a good way to meet new people. Just don't be afraid to talk to people. The first few words may be hard to get out but once you get them out of your mouth the conversation and friendships will flow very easily

There is a big difference between being shy and being introverted. If you are shy, then the above comments might be the way to go. However, if you are introverted you might want to consider a different route. The thing is that culture is spreading to demand the man (or woman) of action over the man (or woman) of contemplation. Thus it is tempting for someone who is introverted to want to break away and be more outgoing even though it simply isn't them. What sparked this idea for me was a TED talk by Susan Cain (she wrote a book that took 7 year on the subject). Maybe you will find some value in it as well. — http://www.ted.com/talks/susan_cain_the_power_of_introverts — Since watching this a few years ago and reading her book, my ideas have arguably grown beyond hers. If the TED talk grabs you, feel free to PM to talk about it in further detail.

I used to be really shy and uncomfortable with myself. So i decided one day that I was just going to say Hi to an absolute stranger and see how they were doing. Start small, like with someone you see at a coffee shop or library. this will give you confidence over time. and from there you do just what you want to. You live a little by impulse. when you get an impulsive thought, try to act on it, even a small attempt is a great success for shy people.

Pick out your most out-going friend and hangout. Talk to people. Ask for help even with the most simplest things. Smile more. Laugh more. Learn a few jokes. Share your opinions. Be confident with yourself (or at least act confident) Take the initiative. Encourage eye contact. It's not easy to change, accept that and be patient with yourself. When an opportunity to speak is given to you don't hesitate to grab it. Best of luck ! Xx

Its difficult to just suddenly become more outgoing.. it takes time and motivation but just got to believe in yourself. You are who you are and don't change for anyone but if you don't like being shy then just got to build your self esteem. Meet new people from maybe joining clubs with hobbies you enjoy, once you have spoken to someone first you will slowly grow confidence and trust within that person and meet new people through them aswell. it takes time and work but It can happen :) hope this helps a bit message me if want too talk

I agree with Asi, if you are simply shy then starting to make friends may be overwhelming at first but your desire for a life with more friends and person to person interaction might help you to push pass that. But if you are introverted then the task at first may be overwhelming to the point it tires you out. I was shy but always love talking to family and close friends. I just wanted & felt the need for more Real friends instead of people I know. Do some research but don't sit infront of the monitor too long :) Get out there!

I have an article here from psychotherapist Gwen Randall-Young:

Having the Courage to Try New Things

"If we're growing we are always going to be out of our comfort zone." ~ John Maxwell

Does fear stop you from trying new things? Do you hesitate to apply for a new job, take a course, or meet new people because you feel insecure about how you will do? This is a fear of the unknown, because if we had a guarantee that things would turn out well, we likely would be more willing to go ahead with a new experience.

It is natural for humans to have some caution about new experiences. This is what has helped the species to survive. It is good to check things out a bit before just jumping in.

However , if the fear stops us from doing new things, then our growth stops. We begin to stagnate, becoming stuck in old familiar ways of being and doing things.

This occurs in some because they are shy, have low self-esteem or become anxious. It also can happen as people begin to age. We do see though, that seniors who remain active and are open to new learning and experiences stay younger.

If there are things you would like to do, but you cannot seem to take the leap, there are some things you can do. If it is a class or event you would like to attend, see if you can find a friend to join you. If it is a new job you are thinking about, see if you can find someone who will mentor you. Get advice on revising your resume, and how to shine in an interview.

Whatever it is you would like to try, it also helps to spend lots of time visualizing yourself in the new situation and enjoying it! If we are fearful, we tend to unconsciously visualize negative images of ourselves in the situation, and so scare ourselves out of even trying. Instead, create a movie in your mind where you are the star and are handling the new experience with confidence and success. Do this often enough, and you just might get excited about trying some of those things you have always wanted to do.