I would like to someday get into investing. I am a little shy to do so, however. I am so afraid of losing money or overall just not doing to well.

Then you should try a somewhat "hands-off" approach. Look into managed funds with low expense ratios. I prefer the funds from Fidelity and Vanguard.

I agree with the above poster. Don't try to do to much at first. Just let the professionals manage your money until you feel comfortable managing your investments by yourself.

Also feel free to try out risk-free trials where you can act as if you're trading, but not using any real money. Not only helps you get used to market psychology, but also allows you to get better equated with the jargon.