Self-Portraits

I need to get better at self-portraits. I find them waaaay too embarrassing, but sometimes there's perfect light and I need to practice! There are some photographers who have such beautiful self portraits!! Firstly, how are they so beautiful, second, how do you focus properly while standing in front of the camera? Anyone have any tips or ideas? I'm going to get better at this! and hopefully better in-front of the camera!