I forgot to say this. In Lerner's book she talks about shame (page 113). I remembered the page b/c it has such impact on me. She said that we rarely talk about shame and the things that make us feel ashamed. I think deep down we all have things that we're terrified that people may find out about us...unrealistic things like, I'm really not pretty and everyone knows it or whatever your thing is.
She gave an example of sitting around with family/friends and getting up to leave the room. What is the biggest fear you have as far as what others might say about you when you're out of the room. This is probably something that is shameful for you.
Maybe you can think about these things and use them to get in touch with your fears. Once you're in touch, you can overcome them over time. Remember though, it is a process. It will take some time.
I hope this ia making sense andy that it helps you.