Can anyone just be who they are, who they want to be, yes of course they "could" but they don't, we don't!
What will people think of you if you say what your thinking. I might seem weird if say “that’s a nice outfit” (to the same gender, male in particular), or ask a question you think you should know. I would have to say though, what I see as a problem is not the general politeness, and afraid of relaxing to be yourself, but how we don’t say or do anything when there’s a problem or issue that you know you “we” should step in and say or do something. If someone has bad b.o. then try to tell them in some polite manner, get others to repeat your actions then it won’t be just the opinion of one (yours) nose. Loud, obnoxious, or plain rude people, just confront them, more likely than not they won’t expect this and won’t know how to react. If you aren’t just a picky prick you’ll have back-up (in the form of others that were thinking the same thing) in the event that they don’t respect your wishes or agree.
At about 26 you start to realize that life is much shorter than first presumed. Of course, this can happen sooner or later depending on the joys or pains of life. Crouching in a corner can make you tightly wound, and people like this always spring out others. So someone intimidates you and you intimidate others to feel better about your weaknesses. Here’s a suggestion, for one whole day trying speaking up when you recognize that moment, compliment as many people as you can (especially those you don’t like, or you think are unattractive), help people with a task that you would never do before, and last but not least family, first your wife/husband, whatever you have been doing to neglect (emotionally, physically, or other) them make it right, and if there’s a family member that’s done you wrong and it’s forgivable, or you’ve done them wrong and there’s a chance of reconciling, then make a phone call, better yet if possible go in the flesh and do what you know to be right. At the end of this particular day you’ll feel much better about you and your existence, and if persistent your confidence will grow and your social skills will improve, thus making you someone that people will want to be with, near, and a friend.
Unfortunately, I have to suddenly leave with no time to dump some thoughts onto this fresh page. I shall return with something worth reading.