You know, as someone who had through most of his initial years crossing puberty been unable to connect to people in a non-professional way (especially to members of the opposite sex, as is common with attributes like that), I completely get where you're coming from. My buddy also had the same problem, and after one particularly tough year in school, I made it a point to come back with initiative to get better (as you have right now). Those efforts worked really well for both of us, and I'd be damned if they didn't work for you.

Admittedly though, despite having learned all these lessons while back, I think I myself have started gradually listening less and talking more, especially after my popularity boost. Its something I should fix, soon.
Good thing your post reminded me.

And as for you, good sir...I tip me hat off to you for taking this initiative for yourself. It is never easy, mastering your social weaknesses and turning them into your advantages, and I am very pleased and happy for you, given that you're making an effort to do this. I wish you the very best of luck in this endeavour. If you ever need any help, insight, or even just someone to talk to about this stuff, you can gimme a ring-a-ding on one of my posts or on Discord. I'm with you in the M-A-P group.