Pushing people away

I keep pushing people away and its making me sad. Im an introvert and id rather stay home than go out, thats also part of the problem - why I cant get close to people.
I talk well to anyone when I meet them for the first time and Im very open minded, but even if I get off to a good start, I just can't seem to keep up a friendship and get close to anyone. I know subconsiously Im afraid of getting hurt, but I cant seem to be able to do anything about it. please help. xxx

Would it be possible for you to join a psychotherapy group to get help with your problems?

What kind of solution would be acceptable for you.

Letter from a reader: luk.. i hav also been facing a very similar problem from a long time and what i have been able to make out is that till the time we don't fight against the fear we have inside us i.e. the fear to get hurt.. it's too hard for us to proceed further with interactions. You should know that all the people out there also carry out similar insecurities and problems. All you have to do is suppress that fear.. listen to your mind.. at most what is going to happen is that you might get a bit hurt.. but it'll then help you find out where you went wrong and you can improve it over the next time... and also remember that there have always been people out there who care about you n all.. and you mite now know about them.. so jes be strong and pull ya strings up!!!