I used to use alcohol in my late teens and into my mid 30's as a social stimulant. It helped me feel cool and talk to anyone. As I got into my late 30's and early 40's it made me more private. I liked to be alone, and I felt as if I had to hide my drinking so it made me more standoffish in crowds and less outgoing. Basically it was having the opposite effect on me.
Now I am sober and very comfortable in my own skin, and I am more social and outgoing than ever. I finally matured into a friendly likable person, and that person likes to meet people and talk to them. I think liking who you are has to come first before you feel comfortable putting yourself out there.