getting by said...
I honestly think everybody feels that way at one time or another. Though some show it more than others. Do you have brothers and sisters? I didn't have any living with me, I think that put a damper on my social skills at one time or another. I don't really like to socialize either, but at your age, I did. It is healthy to be around people. Though I have a lot of the same phobias as you do.
I make myself go to a friend's house one night a week. Once there was a lot of people there, I got uncomfortable and left early. I am just saying at your age, it is nice to get out once in awhile. Maybe just think of it as acquaintances and not prospects to become close friends. And if you do become close friends, then that is a bonus. And if there is a little bit of awkwardness, well, that is learning. In life we have natural ups and downs. We make friends, we lose friends. It isn't always smooth. Be prepared to make some mistakes, we all do.
I think your dad is right, but are you ready yet? Try not to get expectations up too high. Know we are all just people when it comes down to it. We all learn and grow. I think you will do fine....
Hugs, Karen...
I have 3 older sisters; two live at home and one doesn't. I don't get along with one (literally 0%), but that's a different story. I have two pets too if that makes a difference. I'm going to visit my grandma this weekend, so I'll talk to her more too. I'll see if I can try to be more social at school when it starts back.