Well, I guess the only thing I can say is try to ease yourself into it; try to look into someone's eyes for x amount of seconds or minutes, then, next time, try to beat that record. Don't worry about how others perceive you; I'm pretty certain that when I look at people, I look like some kind of monster or really scary person. But, I still try anyway.
As for girls, well, just accept their compliments like everyone said and feel happy that they want to associate themselves with you. If you're being complimented by multiple girls, then don't you think that there's something to what they're saying? You're luckier than some of us on here and out in the world, so take advantage of that luck and go get some female associates!