So your an Element against the wall, trying to get up enough courage to interact with other elements? Are you posing as observing or are you really taking into account what other elements are doing and surmising your first Element 99 move? Hmmmm. I think you think too much. Get out there and Element out! What have you got to lose? ;)
I'm shy in some circumstances. When an assignment required me to interview well-known writers, I was suddenly paralysed with nerves. At large parties, I feel acutely uncomfortable going up to people I don't know. So much so that I've never managed it, and nowadays I just don't bother going. No problems one-on-one or in small groups.
You don't seem to be here Nevan. You are very intelligent, have a sense of humor, and attractive. Just remember, everyone is a little shy because we all want to fit in. We all have our idiosyncrasies. You just happen to know yours. Nobody else does. Don't dwell on it. Your good way outweighs those! ;)