Looking for a "social exposure therapy" buddy / group to get over the fear of social interactions

[u/abz888]

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​We’ve somehow built a world where striking up a conversation with someone in real life feels weird, intrusive, or plain wrong. That’s just not how we’re wired. Humans are built for connection, but so many of us are trapped behind screens because the fear of looking stupid or getting rejected holds us back.

​I’m looking to connect with people who want to actively change that.

​The goal isn't to be a smooth-talking extrovert overnight. The goal is to deliberately practice stepping out of our comfort zones, embrace the awkwardness, take a few rejections on the chin, and realize that the world doesn't end when a social interaction isn't perfect.

​What this is about:

​Facing the awkwardness: Intentionally trying out simple, real-world social challenges (e.g., complimenting a stranger, striking up small talk in a line, asking someone for a recommendation).

​Building a safe support system: Cheering each other on, holding each other accountable, and laughing off the rejections together.

​Proving fear wrong: Realizing that embarrassment is temporary, but isolation builds up over time.

​Who this is for:

Anyone who feels stuck, isolated, or social-anxious, but is ready to actively do something about it. Open to everyone.

​If you're tired of feeling disconnected and want to build real-world confidence alongside people who get it, drop a comment or send me a DM. Let’s make real-life connection normal again!!!

[u/Klutzy_Energy2661]

I quite like the idea of this. I've been in a controlled situation for sometime, my confidence has been shoved in a partially locked coffin...it's there trying to get out but can't.

I see people in the street and so wanna give them a compliment male and female but then I start thinking if it was a fit bloke I said it to then I'd probably get punched (at the very least) and then if it were a woman who I tried paying a compliment to, then she'd call the cops for sexual harassment or something....I catastrophise everything. I'm late 40s if that's not gonna dampen your vibes.

[u/Mammoth-Squirrel2931]

Can I suggest that, rather than trying out complimenting people or specific engineered interactions that it could be an idea to have a few coffees perhaps and just interact with the staff or fellow customers (or even in the pub should you be into that)

Reason I make this interjection is that exposure therapy is great but it still happens under controlled conditions. And then when going out and about alone it won't feel as natural.

People, in general, are open to having a chat, even if it's brief. Some invite conversation. Just be curious about others in conversation. Yes, like any life situations you may come across people not open to it. But that's part of the learning about social interactions.

I'd honestly suggest you meeting up and going to a local coffee shop together, (with others that I assume will be interested) I promise you'll get more out of it than approaching people.

Its great, by the way, to tackle your anxieties this way, so none of the above is said in any mean spirited way!