Is it normal to have trouble engaging in conversation?

It's uhm, kind of normal. I and many others I've spoken to have the same "problem". For me it's having to construct sentences in my head before saying something, sort of. It's hard to explain. A lack of spontaneous verbal fluency or something.

To tell you the truth, I often feel the very same way. While I find it easy to talk in groups, I stress over having a one-on-one conversation with somebody. Some people just do not contribute to the conversation, leaving me constantly thinking of what to say next due to my hatred for awkward silences. Do not worry, this feeling you experience is quite normal but don't let it get to you.

This is clever.

I can't tell you if it's normal or not, but I'm 19 and I have the hardest time talking to people. When I meet new people, especially guys, I'm constantly in my head thinking about what to say next. You seem to have a good handle on it, at least you know what you want to say you just have to think about it. I'm completely lost. If you find a solution to our problem, can you tell me!

Not abnormal. Just very frustrating. Today, I have what I would consider an attractive, warm personality. But hasn't always been the case. I was exactly like you during my junior year. One way (and yes it is uncomfortable) to deal with the anxiety is to expose it. Put yourself in a situation in which you're going to have to experience and deal with it. But take it slow. For example, go to a school dance. Just stay for half of it if it's uncomfortable, but dance with just one person. Don't wish it away (the shyness), because that doesn't work and you'll find yourself even more frustrated. Just act IN SPITE OF it. Embrace it and work w it, without being a slave to it. You'll eventually break through
This...good luck

It's natural to be nervous when talking to people sometimes. I would advise you not too focus to much on what you are going to say because it may make you read to much into situations as well as you may come across as if you're trying to hard. I'm sure others have told you this, but all you have to do is be yourself... Girls like when guys are themselves & show confidence in who they are. Remember it's just a casual conversation & not the end of the world if it goes a little awkward. Once you get more comfortable, you'll be able to engage & enjoy in your everday interactions.

Its normal, for a person with a head.

Its normal to think about what you are going to say, especially when you meet new people and want to make a good impression. But keep in mind that when you're with your true friends, you should be relaxed to be yourself and say whatever you like (as long as it not hurts anyone, of course).

I think it's very normal.. Especially if ur conversing with someone from a different background or someone whit whom u don't have chemistry .. :-)

Try the opposite. Try not saying something. U'll find it's harder to do than u think. It may undo some of the shyness.... Also, people foget and get over things in a week... So who cares what they think... Let ur thoughts out.

Try not to think, not even the first word, thinking in advance make you look shy! Put yourself close, listen, then when (and if) you feel you have something to say, do it. You can start with simple "that's true", but you have to feel it is what you really think, otherwise people will sense you are "artificial". It worked for me.