Hmm, I'm not sure I can give decent advice here. My relationships with girls (except friends of course) have all been meaningless flings, except for now. Seems I got lucky the first time, haha.

Yeah, fear of rejection is a main factor I think. Being able to talk, having conversations with different people in real life without any problem. But once it's a hot girl / girl you're interested in, shutting down.
I know for a lot of people a bit of alcohol helps. I guess that's my drive to make people alcoholics. :p

The best attitude for me has always been: not giving a fuck. Hot girl is taken, rejects you? Who cares, next one. Not to try to be more of an asshole, just not changing myself for others.

If you're really looking for a relationship, I don't know. I think most times that just happens without looking for it.