I grew up awkward and introverted, with awkward and introverted parents. When I finished college and moved to a new city, I intentionally put myself in situati

I grew up awkward and introverted, with awkward and introverted parents. When I finished college and moved to a new city, I intentionally put myself in situations where I had to socialize. I created a Couchsurfing account and hosted people from time to time (circa 2008-2010). I also joined a few meetups here and there, volunteered at a soup kitchen… Over time, exposure to these social settings helped reduce my anxiety around them, and I picked up (probably the hard way). I’m immuno-compromised, so the pandemic has been lonely a number of times, as I tend to be more cautious then the average person. I feel for people wanting to make this change in their life now but are protecting themselves.