How can I be more confident?

And gain self-esteem?

Over the past two years (I'm 14 now), my confidence has just gone downfall. Same goes with self-esteem. People always complain that I talk too fast; I'm convinced that's a confidence thing.

I don't think autism can affect confidence, as everyone is going to have a confidence issue in some places. However with me, it does seem like everywhere. When it comes to school, and participating in class discussions, that's when I become too scared to answer a question as I know it'll be the wrong answer and i'll be ridiculed, although on some occasions when I do answer and it's wrong, that doesn't happen but it's specific questions.

I also have doubts on whether to talk to people, whether in a group or alone. When i'm alone with a friend or someone else, I don't really have a problem, but when it comes to people around, if I make one stupid comment I get ridiculed and feel i'm much better off being alone.

Even if there is no one around (that can hear me), I can't even sing because i'm afraid that my voice might sound weird. Especially when someone says something offensive to me, or something that makes me look like a fool in front of a group of people, I can't think of something to say back to them that doesn't sound stupid, and without talking fast, because more and more people are making fun/taking note of the fact I talk to fast. Normally i'd try to ignore them but I want to stop talking fast, and as I mentioned above, i'm probably nervous or uncomfortable which caused me to do that.

Running away from my problems (in this case, bullies or stupid people) is another issue because i'm not confident enough to deal with it. I start stressing too much when i'm talking in front of people have a discussion etc as I don't have anything to say.

Self esteem has been my problem due to many criticism from adults and other kids due to my appearance, and how I speak, including what I do at home (nosey kids). When I try to talk in front of people, the criticism makes me want to just shut my mouth, which could become a problem in terms of class discussions.

I need help with this, as at the age of 14 it is affecting me a lot.

Two things will get you started.

1. Look people in the eye.
2. Give a firm pleasant handshake.

And if you want a third, don't be too anxious to say something. Just listen for a while and smile.

When it is time to talk, ask others about themselves

After you have mastered those, my young padawan, return for more knowledge.
Seriously, after you have done that 25 times, come and tell me how you feel.

By the way, I am also a horrid singer, but I do it anyway.

Good luck.