Socially Awkward

As the holidays approach, I thought it would be a good idea to talk something out. Do you always count on other people to start a conversation or introduce themselves? If you're the last one to the party, do you assume that the people you don't know will come up and introduce themselves? Or do you think, "Well, if they don't go out of their way to talk to me, I'm not going to talk to them." Or are you the type that just tries to avoid the party all together, because you're socially awkward (not that I have any friends like this, ahem.) Or do you get too caught up in your small group of friends or those you already feel comfortable around to include others? As my children have started becoming involved in things (school, dance lessons, baseball, etc.), it has vastly increased the number of people I don't know but find myself around on a regular basis. Sometimes I bring my A Game and am ready to introduce myself and make small talk. Other times, I just don't feel it, but then, for some reason, I feel I have a social obligation as an outgoing person to fulfill this need. Should we all just stand around and look weird because we don't know each other? Or should we introduce ourselves, even if we've seen one another five times now. I say let's all be more assertive. Nobody is going to think you're weird for saying hello! Why do we always feel so weird about it? Or is this just me? I know it's not just me, but is there anyone willing to admit it?! So put your big girl panties (or your big boy boxer briefs) on next time you find yourself in one of these situations, and go get 'em. You can do it! And chances are, you'll be glad you did.

P.S. I have to say, I think Staci is very good at doing this. We've had a lot of showers amongst the six of us (and more to come!), and I always admire the way she is able to put people at ease with conversation during a possibly socially awkward situation. She even said in one of her posts that it is an acquired skill, even for her, so don't go saying you can't do this, because it's just not "you." :) In another post, Mary, who occasionally finds herself in a socially awkward situation (wink, wink), suggested thinking up a short list of good small talk topics. She did think that pee and poo should be left off of this list. In Staci's post, however, she said she likes small talk that includes bathroom humor. So I'll leave that to your own discretion.