I feel the same way. Despite this comment, I'm far more reticent to share an opinion, and I don't find that I have so many great unknown facts to enlighten others. I do like getting one or two "Internet points" on HN over the years, though :)

That's just a feeling you have. I know, because I had it too. I'd be surprised if it's not a typical self-criticism phenomenom that is common to most people, just like the famous impostor syndrome.

But just like 95% of people here seem to have a more interesting and knowledgeable opinion that mine, there is always people for whom you are part of that 5%. Just don't be shy of participating. You'll learn more and faster from others. And some interesting conversations will happen, in public or private, for sure.

I feel the same thing. I’m so accustomed to lurking that I sometimes even forget to upvote some posts I’ve really enjoyed. But then I realize it’s no big deal because usually at that point in time most people have already performed the filtering. Sometimes I do vote though but it’s not consistent and I’m not sure why it feels like there’s a barrier for making it into a habit.

well, I've had my email address on mine for a while, and all it does is confirm I have nothing important or interesting enough for anyone to follow up on! But then, I've never really wanted to contact anyone else either, if I've had questions, I've asked them on here.