Deer in the Headlights

[utsusemi]

Has anyone else been accepted by at least one program, but found themselves too paralyzed to get in and make contacts, research, etc. about that school/those schools because you're still waiting to hear from others?

I'm a little shy to begin with, and am finding myself ridiculously hesitant to open interactions without all the facts on the table in front of me. I know this is dumb for a myriad of reasons, but it's still a block. Any tips for the shy on good ways to get over it and start talking to people? Reassurances that professors in my field won't hate me forever if I take up their time, visit, and then ultimately pick another program would also be nice.