Don't say "just be yourself". I believe I am like this because of habits I have built up over the years.
I like talking, its just that I either make a fool of myself and get laughed at or I don't know what to say.
Also this is why I think I am socially awkward....:
1.) Often I would talk and when I don't know what to say I end up laughing which = awkward I guess.
2.) I have improved my eye contact, especially when its someone talking to me. Although, in spontaneous conversations I probably end up looking into space like all over the place.
3.) People see me as awkward. Honestly, I never used to see myself as awkward. Except someone once said to me "everything about you is awkward", also someone told me "you are the most socially awkward guy I know". Tbh im not too fussed about girls but a girl once said I am "cute in an awkward way". I definitely know people dont see me as confident which is weird because I always used to think of myself as confident.
So how can I change?
I have been trying lol but I want to try harder. I have a charismatic smile which works for me, I am good at flattery (but not to the extent of sucking up).
I have even brought a self help book on how to build self confidence.