Overcoming Social Anxiety: Tips for Making Friends

I've lived as a recluse my entire life. I've only gone out for work and necessities. I'm uncomfortable even stepping out into my front yard. I've avoided any outings I've been invited to and have lived a life online. Now after 30 years I want to step out into the world, make friends, talk to people and become the opposite of what I've been my entire life. I've been doing it for the past 8 years and I've made very little progress. Well I've made progress mentally and have changed my state of mind but applying my knowledge to the real world is extremely difficult. Anyone have any tips? I don't know where to go, who to approach or how to approach. After I say hey hello how are you doing? It's pretty much up to the other person to keep the conversation going and I just don't know how to keep it flowing on my own.