Introverts are usually stereotyped as being shy, quiet, socially awkward, etc. even though the concepts of introversion and extroversion only applies to how a person becomes energized.

Unfortunately, I am a stereotypical introvert.

Meeting new people always makes me nervous; I have trouble speaking up; people often ask me to repeat myself because I'm so quiet and whenever I have any kind of social interaction, I know I'm on a time limit for how "fun" I can be before wanting to take a nap.

It's not really bad, but it's not really great either. And even as a college student, I still sometimes struggle with "getting out there" and being actively involved with people.

However, all is not lost. After a fair amount of teen angst and general discomfort, I've collected some knowledge over the years for how to socialize with other people and not feel completely frustrated or inadequate.

For my fellow shy introverts, these are for you.

1. It's a matter of perspective.

Perspective is a finicky thing because even though your perspective directly influence your emotions, it's not completely accurate since it doesn't represent the whole picture.

Accidentally calling someone the wrong name or messing up a dinner order can easily be blown out of proportion in our minds. What might seem like the end of the world is really just a minor flub that can be easily corrected.

When you find yourself worrying over mistake you've made—whether in the moment or right after—try to mentally step away from the situation and take a deep breath. It's really not as bad as you think it, and it's going to be okay.

2. If you can, just be honest and straightforward.

Doing this tends to make things easier both for yourself and the people you interact with.

When I first meet someone, I usually tell them upfront that I'm bad with names and that I'm a quiet person. By doing this I can ensure that they won't be offended when I have trouble talking to them or if I forget their name if I see them again.

This can also apply to classmates, professors, your work peers, etc. since it gives them a general understanding about who you are and how to approach you.

3. It takes time.

Oftentimes, I hear the Nike slogan thrown around to urge shy people to do more things.

Nervous about having to call someone on the phone? Just do it! There's a party going on tonight? Just do it! Your friends or family want to set you up on a blind date? Just do it!

But it's not that simple.

With any skill that you're building up, it requires baby steps. And yes, socializing is a skill. While it might come more naturally to others, it's still something that needs to be learned and practiced. But this doesn't mean you have to force yourself into social situations that freak you out.

If you're comfortable getting coffee with one friend, then great! You can slowly work your way up to hanging out with more and more people. Everyone goes at their own pace, so you don't have to rush it.

4. It is good to test your limits, but it's not an obligation.

This is usually where being an introvert is involved.

It's great to try new things and meet new people, but if you know you're drained, then you're drained. It's okay to turn down invites and not go to big social events. You don't always have to say yes.

Even if I know some of my good friends are involved and that it'll be fun, sometimes I just want time to myself and it ends up being a nice, quiet evening.

5. The buddy system is your friend, literally.

If you lack initiation, motivation, and/or energy, become friends with someone who does. Their outgoing personality can help you try out things you wouldn't otherwise do by yourself.

Some of my best friends are extremely outgoing and can honestly be a little overwhelming at times. But I've also shared many great experiences and adventures with them because they pushed me go outside my comfort zone.

They've also helped me where I feel out-of-depth socially. If I don't know anyone, they take the time to introduce me. If I'm having trouble in a conversation, they pick it up and make sure to include me. If I don't have a clue what to expect or what's going on, I ask them and they talk me through it.

The buddy system is a lifesaver. Get it, treasure it, but try not to wholly depend on it.

6. Be comfortable being you.

People change all the time, and while it's beneficial to consciously work towards changing to be more comfortable around other people, it's more important to be comfortable with yourself.

When you're comfortable with yourself, you also become confident in yourself. This will eventually overflow into your social interactions, making everything flow just a little bit easier.

These are only a few of the things that I've learned, and they're certainly not the last.

There's nothing wrong with being introverted. In fact, it has many benefits. And while being shy can be a setback, it's also something that can be managed.