Being an introvert is messing up my life? How do other introverts cope with this?

I have been very shy since I was a child. Eventually, I spoke more and more because it was kind of a trick the teachers played on me. They intentionally called on me at school to answer questions in class. From elementary to junior high to high school they did this. Anyway, what I could suggest is to expose yourself to only a few people at a time in an environment where you are comfortable (i.e. a wide open space or with good ambiance). No stress to talk but just listen and maybe they will ask you to participate by directing a question to you. As an introvert, I usually observe people first until I feel comfortable speaking to them. If they are decent, they will not mock you or tease you that you are speaking with them. If things feel like you are being congested, then excuse yourself and get a breather. Literally take a deep breath, flex your shoulders, tilt your head up & move it left to right. Hopefully slowly you will get used to it and eventually get used to the crowd getting bigger and bigger. Take it one step at a time. If you feel the need to leave, do so gracefully. Good luck

They select a highly reliable, trustworthy and wise mentor and now they strictly follow the kind words of advice from their Mentor. You too can adopt the same method. Then you will never mess up your life.