Tidbit of Advice I: Talk About Yourself

Just not all the time.  Trust me, nobody wants a self absorbed friend.  But do talk about yourself to friends.  Share with them dreams and self doubts.  Share traumas from your past and your favorite memories.  It will be scary and, yes, you're gonna sometimes put your faith in a friend that doesn't really hear what you are saying.  But you will find a friend who will really listen and share a thought that makes you see yourself in a whole new light.  You are your own worst critic and sometimes you need someone with a whole different perspective to realize how amazing you truly are.