Look in the mirror and stare at yourself eye to eye. Staring like that requires gut, and the grit acquired in the exercise will help in you in your goal. When you talk to people, be conscience of your body language. Are you giving off signs of neediness or insecurity? If so, stare them in the eye from time to time while they talk and coax your body into a relaxed but assertive position. Both acts will increase your courage, which in turn will decrease your personal dependence on others. Finally, get involved in a “one person” hobby. This is one way to prove to yourself that you can be good at something from your own hard work and merit. The feeling of accomplishment will help you to become more self-reliant in the area of building up self-worth. (These is are “in the very beginning” tips. Look to below answers for further advice. :) )