If you have the time and resources you could seek out a paleo-oriented or paleo-friendly conference or seminar, like MovNat, PrimalCon, or a Weston A. Price Foundation event. Similarly, you could seek out a local CrossFit box or other fitness group, like a barefoot running group (if you haven't done these already).

What's the common thread here? Self esteem can be boosted by creating and sustaining relationships - and a good way to get a head start on relationships is by meeting people with similar interests and value sets. Then you can cheer each other on as you strive for new fitness and dietary goals and have fun while doing it! :)

The answer already posted is excellent. However, consider additionally that it may be counterproductive to always place your self-worth in the hands of others. Relationships are important but your sense of you will come from understanding who you are, what you want in life and creating a path to get there. You mentioned that you've fixed some things that weren't going well for you. That's your self esteem right there! You've proven you can do anything you want; now decide what's next and go for it!

Once you've centered yourself, you'll have plenty of confidence and it will show to others. You'll be more comfortable in social situations and everything will fall into place for you.

Spend time in Nature or around animals. It helps. My theory is that everyone is depressed, but depression is a matter of how your experience life. I think depression is a type of hunger, your minds way of sayin "it's time to nourish me!", so get out and nourish your life.

In addition to exercise, sun, and relationships I would highly recommend mindfulness meditation. Meditation helps you know and accept yourself and allows you to have better control over your thoughts.

Practice, practice, practice. Go to a party or a bar and find someone sitting alone. Most people are nervous or anxious when alone in social situations. Just strike up a conversation. Most people will be happy to be noticed. Every now and then you'll encounter someone who's weird and offputting, but generally people will be happy you talked to them and asked them about themselves.

Before starting on the Paleo some seven years ago, I always had anxiety attacks, panic attacks and my mind was usually always in a fog. Since being on the Paleo Diet, and especially since I have eliminated grains,sugars, dairy,legumes and salt, I feel calm, more relaxed internally, and the confidence that I am doing something right, has propelled me to being a bit more sociable and interactive. I am a better listener. All round, I think people feel comfortable around me, because I am comfortable with myself. Yes the diet reduces various forms of internal inflammation, making one feel great, ready to take on challenges.

I wish I knew you in real life. I have had the same social issues as you present in your question. I am an 18 year old female, so we belong to the same age group.

I used to feel extremely anxious around people. I still want to isolate myself from others sometimes. I noticed recently a correlation between my energy level and my desire for social stimulation. When I feel tired, I just feel like I will mess it up when I talk to someone. That seems to summarize my problem.

The best solution I can offer you is Stoicism, my favorite school of philosophy. I recommend reading "The Manual" by Epictetus. It really changed the way I look at the world.

Just don't forget (I often forget this!) that whatever you feel is your opinion on the matter in front of you, not a fact. You can not change facts, but your own opinions can be changed with practice.