shy bairns get nowt

Etymology
Literally “shy children get nothing”, a reference to the shyness of children when making requests.

Proverb

 * 1)  If you're too shy, or don't ask, you will not get what you want.

Usage notes
The proverb is used widely in the North East of England, United Kingdom, to encourage children to speak up and not to be too shy. However, it may also be used to imply that an adult is too shy or unassertive.