Reply #31: Is this how it's been your whole life, or is it schedule related right now?

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I met a guy a couple months ago who felt similar to you. He said he had been socially awkward his whole life, and then decided to read a book about it - the problem is common and there are many books. He read some books about how to be a good conversationalist, how to approach people, etc. and said it has made a huge difference in his life.

I thought it was an interesting approach. People don't usually address social/personal problems the way they address others, but it works! Learn about the problem, identify solutions, put them into practice.

I realize your schedule makes it more difficult, but you are not the only one who works weird shifts. Unless you live in a tiny town, there must be late morning events of some kind.

And ditto what many others have said - find somewhere to volunteer. It's impossible NOT to meet people that way.