One of my reasons for drinking was to be more "out there"--more social and extroverted. I've always been shy and reserved and used to have a lot of anxiety. Drinking backfired though, because it soon only caused me to be less social because of embarrassment and shame.
I was completely denying my true nature. I'm an introvert and once I got sober this time, I've finally accepted it and am perfectly content to be this way. I've learned to really enjoy my own company now. I no longer feel guilty or somehow inadequate because I'm not more sociable than I am.
At the same time, and maybe it comes with age, I am more comfortable around people than I used to be. Just as long as it's not too many of them at once.