I'm sick of the way I am...

For most of my life I have had the same friends, now it's like I don't know how to socialize outside of my small circle, and the worst part is that circle is falling apart. I don't feel as close to them as I used to and I want to move on but I don't know how.
Talking to people is awkward at best, and commonly excrutiating. It's like every conversation I have with people exacerbates the way I feel.
I don't know how to get over this... Advice?

I'm not sure I have much advice to offer but since I am similar in keeping only a close circle of friends I figured I'd respond. I don't see that circle of friends nearly as much due to us all getting married, having children, etc. I have a very hard time carrying on conversations with new people because I'm extremely shy and have fear of getting rejected by them....it's a bad combo.

I'm an IT guy so I'm constantly working with people on a daily basis and meet new people all the time but short of pleasantries I have a very hard time carrying on conversations with them and they always do most of the talking. I see myself as an extremely friendly person I just get really awkward when opening up to new people.

I'd say the best advice I can offer is that if you are like me and find it easier to open up to people online maybe try and meet people online first that way you really break the ice and get to know each other so you won't be intimidated when you are meeting with them in person possibly.