Friendships?

Question

I am 21 years old and I only have about 2 friends. Not that I'm complaining about the amount, but I would like to have a few more. Problem is.. I am extremely shy and avoid people as much as possible. (Which is crazy cause I used to be SUCH a social butterfly) Not to mention my self esteem is shot and I believe that people only talk to me out of pity and guilt. 
So my question is, (and it's a 3 parter) how can I open up more and find some decent people, how does someone even MAKE friends and does anybody got any tips on how to improve my views about myself?
I know this is kinda pathetic but I'm that despite. :/

Answer

I am the same way. I have 4 friends, non of which I live within 12 hours of. I do bot even know how to make friends. When my husband was still in the military it was easy to bond with women and have aquaintences; I have stayed close to two of them and my other two friends I have been friends with since diapers. Thankfully my husband likes hanging out with me! I just do not even know where to meet a new friend... I take classes at the gym and tried that but it's always old ladies. Idk. I have always been okay in my own company. I just wish I had a girlfriend to meet for coffee once in awhile. 
Idk what to tell you. My mom tells me to strike up conversations with strangers but there is no way that is going to happen!

Answer

I don't see what's wrong with you personally or why you having self esteem issues you look fine to me (that sounds so gay lol oh gawd) just try being more friendly smiling more , waving its alot of friendly people in the world that'll approach you that's how I make friends whether I'm standing in line , work , grocery store everywhere I end up talking and getting to know random people like I just met some cool UK girls in Florida at Universal Studios Orlando in Oct everybody enjoyed each other so all us ended up swapping numbers and Kiks now we talk on a regular basis but I hope you come out your shell soon bet you are a awesome person.

Answer

Exercise!!! Endorphins are a beautiful thing. Look up clinical depression, and if you think you have that, go see a therapist or psychiatrist. These things helped pull me out of my depression and self confidence issues!

Answer

I think you need to address the last part first. Has something changed that negatively affected your self esteem? You used to be a social butterfly but closed off, just curious if there was a trigger. It'll make it easier to address.

What makes you awesome? If you can't answer that, ask your two friends, they'll give you some insight. Focus on stuff you like and activities, get to know yourself! 😊

Then get friendly. Even if it's just a passing smile at work or something makes you approachable and people will open up to you. Take small steps.

I think it's important to have good friends rather than many friends, but as your said, two is kind of slim pickings. (Been there myself)

Answer

I think maybe you could be a bit depressed that can crap in and cause social anxiety. I really recommend you go into a health food store and ask about homeopathic nerve pills. Times that I've needed them, I like to use boiron nervita.

Answer

I'm with you