You're definitely not alone in feeling like this. But it can be hard to go from "at home loner" to social butterfly. So we need a training plan, with manageable steps. Let's use the "fear ladder"!
Now start by thinking of 10 social situations that you wish you'd be able to handle and even enjoy. Write them all down on a blank piece of paper.
Now look at all these situations and rate them on a scale of 1 to 10 based on how scary they feel to you. 1 means a little stressful but doable. 10 means NO WAY I'M DOING THAT!
Now sort your situations from easiest to hardest. Use the fear ladder template for this. And there you go: your training plan is ready!
Now it's time to start training. Start with the easiest situation and practice it until it's no longer scary. Then move on to the next one. Rinse and repeat.
The fear ladder is a powerful tool. Use it and it will help! And if you're interested in more tips and tricks for becoming more social, see below!