What are some good ways to gain confidence?

What are good ways to gain confidence and start socializing?

• A shy girl, 20 years old, a fashion student. She didn't go out often, so she didn't have many friends, just a very few (true) friends, she thinks that online people are nicer than real world ones. So, obviously no guy has ever asked her out or tell her that she was pretty, or maybe has a crush on her lol. Well, she just broke up from her long distance ex boyfriend, and in order to move on fast, her family and best friend suggested her to start socializing with real world people, make new friends, or maybe date a real world (nice) guy. The problem is she has certain insecurities about herself, like she tend to act akwardly as she always nervous with new people. She's not up to date with informations such as dept. Store sale,what's trendy, etc. Her short-fat figure was also her major concern, those made her worried if she might not fit in the society. Yet she thought that be a bit more outgoing, would be necessary. So, how can she gain confidence? How to start fun and enjoyable conversation with new people? How to make people like her, just the way she is? Most importantly, how to approach (nice) guys in appropriate way? Any advice? Know that your answer can change the girl's life. Thanks a lot ^^

• Answer:

  Start by not talking about yourself in the 3rd person. It's annoying and unnecessary. You don't need many friends. It's better to have a few real ones than a whole bunch of fake ones. So you're on the right track there. Take one of these real friends to a bar. Grab a few drinks and get a little buzz. It will help feel more relaxed. Have fun without worrying too much. People that look like they're having fun are attractive. Focus on enjoying yourself rather than hooking up. If you're insecure about your figure, change your diet, join a gym and do something about it. Realize that you have the power to do this if you want it badly enough, especially at 20. I'm not saying this to be mean, I'm just saying it to make you realize that you're in full control of your own life. Good luck.