I Am Quiet, Shy And Socially Awkward

I do get pretty shy and thanks to that I also get awkward socially and usually end up saying the wrong thing, or making some dumb joke that makes me look like an idiot or something, which doesn't exactly help my shyness. Once I get past the awkward getting to know someone bit I'm fine its just getting past it thats the problem.
I guess thats one of the main reasons I joined here, to try and push myself a little and stop being so shy, not so sure its working yet but maybe it will help a little.