The best way to get over your fear of talking to people is to practice on total strangers that you'll never see again. Just go hang out in a public place that you don't normally frequent, and start by asking random strangers for the time. Sounds stupid, but it's basic social interaction, and it's a start. Really simple: "Excuse me, do you have the time?" and regardless of what they answers, just reply with "Thanks". Do this until you don't feel nervous about asking a stranger for the time, and then bump it up a notch. Start asking people for directions somewhere. It'll put you into a slightly more involved conversation. Just practice until you feel comfortable.. Once you've had a few conversations that have carried on a bit, you'll start to feel more confident and the whole social anxiety thing will melt away.