Aaron Marino of alpha m. addresses how to be comfortable in social situations, including groups. Aaron has not always been as jovial and smooth as he is presently. Being comfortable in social situations is the key to be able to interact, network, and communicate as effectively as possible.
Start making conversation with people that ‘don’t matter’, with whom you have no commitment, and to whom you have no connection. Engage the cashier at the grocery store or server at the restaurant. Do this in every situation and you will get better at interacting with people. The more practice, the better you’ll get. If you feel out of sorts or out of place when you are forced to interact, sit back and relax while taking everything else in. Learn about those around you, and then when you feel ready, engage them in conversation. But the best way to practice is to small talk with people who ‘don’t matter.’
