Self Improvement and Self Development

I’m having a problem with trying out self improvement books or seeking professional help. Most of the times I end up more confused than ever. Each individual has a different idea of what is to lead to “happiness” and “confidence” .

I don’t want to spend my entire life on this. I already spent like 4 years trying to “improve” only to find out I’m as confused or more confused than at the beginning.

Should I just forget about all that and try to enjoy life now even with my limitations and forget about fighting my “shyness” and all that sort of stuff?

thanks!

Jade