Carrying on a conversation is discussed in chapter 9. Time involved You may want to do some reading and some role-playing. This might take a couple of hours. Otherwise, take about 15 minutes to plan what you might say when you have an opportunity and then give it a try. Most of the time will involve actual interacting.
Fear is the greatest obstacle.
Rather obviously, even if you can start practicing right away, there is a learning period. There is a common belief that one shouldn't have to study to be a good socializer, it should just come naturally. Sorry, but for many of us, it just doesn't happen that easily. It's only intelligent to learn the skills, if you don't already have them. Obviously, others may be concerned that a self-helper interested in gaining social skills will misuse these skills, e.g. taking advantage of friends or deceiving others.