Destined to be alone forever

[Angela_M]

How did I get chosen to be alone forever? I can't even provide references for an apartment application. I don't drink, so I could never bond with people I worked with who went out for happy hour. Being socially shy is the worst feeling in the world. It's often misconstrued as being stuck up, or standoffish. I get along with the people at work, but it just feels one-sided. I made a pledge to reach out to and say hello and have a kind word, but it's never reciprocated. It's the worst feeling in the world as an only child, with no close cousins.

[Rafiki11]

Maybe you’re just in the wrong social circles for you? May I ask what industry you work in?

Maybe you could make more connections in a volunteer organization?

[Angela_M in reply to Rafiki11]

Thanks, this is a good idea. I'm going to take a closer look for the things I'm interested in, and see if folks locally are out there.

[rando1000]

Maybe if you're not averse to spending time with your co-workers, you could just go to the happy hour and have a soda or a seltzer water? People in our office who don't drink usually handle it that way. Show up, hang out for an hour or so (before things start getting crazy, if that makes you uncomfortable) and just interact? There's no law that says you have to drink alcohol in a bar.

[Angela_M in reply to rando1000]

I guess, I could do this. Order a coke, and leave just before things go too crazy. I'm a little uncomfortable around folks getting "sauced" up. Also, I have to be honest with myself. If I'm mocked for not drinking with the crew, then I need a new circle. Thanks for your reply. 🙂

[Rafiki11 in reply to Angela_M]

You are exactly right! Grown ups should not exert peer pressure on people who choose to drink non-alcoholic beverages.