Most people are shy on and off during their lives, but feeling like you're always that way must be pretty frustrating--especially if you're not happy with a "silent life."

The first thing that people generally recommend for overcoming shyness is that you face your fears, that is, put yourself in situations that make you feel a little uncomfortable but eventually get you enough practice that you start relaxing.

That may sound drastic. But I do suggest you give some thought to gradually involving yourself in something new--in a new and different environment (not, for example, at school right away if you have bad associations with that). This could mean joining a club or group of some kind, taking a class outside school, getting a job or maybe volunteering (the focus on helping other people can be a great distraction).

Being around others in a variety of situations has a way of loosening most people up. And meanwhile, the more that's happening in your life, the more there is to talk about!

There are also various tricks you could try, such as learning to imagine that the person you are speaking to isn't really there, that you're rehearsing a play in your room or something. Another trick is trying to think about someone you're not as shy with, maybe an old friend or a sibling.

On the other hand, if your shyness doesn't seem to be going away and you continue to feel badly about it, you might consider seeing a therapist of some kind, either by contacting a counselor at school or mentioning it to your parents.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope you'll be easy on yourself. You may indeed grow out of your shyness. Or you may always be a little shy with people. There's nothing wrong with that if you can get over being embarrassed and find enough company to make you happy.

Meanwhile, you might be interested in these resources about being yourself.