Black sheep in a sea of white

A lot of people dread to go to parties alone and think “what am I going to do there? I hardly know anyone. I can’t drink too much and I don’t smoke.” They feel they are not cut out to attend such social gatherings and be able to gel well and have fun

It’s okay to be not too comfortable with people you meet for the first time but don’t show your vulnerability to everyone. Confidence is the key. Confidence comes with practice and knowing some basic skills

Everyone is not social by birth. Yes, some definitely are, but some acquire the skills over time

Some are naturally introverted and are shy; and it is absolutely fine if you feel like that. But by no means being introverted or being shy will stop you from having fun at a social gathering

Some key points to know:

Observe- know who the host is, know the place by observing the layout and what is kept where

Be attentive and improve on your Listening skills- Pay attention when you are spoken to, or when someone is introducing him/herself to you, or other important detail being spoken to you or around you. You don’t want to ask the same question later on

Look relaxed and don’t try to make any remarks without thinking. Different people construct these comments in their own ways and start judging you

Think before you speak

Keep the words of wisdom to yourself unless someone asks for them

Don’t talk nonsense- be sure of what you are saying

Don’t be a idealist or a good person- that’s the worst thing you can be at a party

Smile a lot. It exudes confidence

Shake hands or even Hug

Have fun but don’t fall sick

Make sure you don’t get sloshed and be in a condition that you can’t even get back home

Focus on what the group is like. You can come into the discussion only once you understand the context a little bit. Don’t just barge in and ask about the background it might be one of their personal or inside conversations.

Observe how the individual people in the group are behaving. Their body language will tell you everything

Compliment people- who doesn’t love to hear how good their choices are, or how good they look or how fit they are

There are always some sharp talkers who can be caustic in a way, it is best to not give them fodder to get at you

Don’t be the know-all gyani and give solutions to everything. Give an opinion only when it matters or when you really have to make a comment

Be mature and feel a part of the group and some of the new friends can be your best buddies in no time

If you spot a person in a party you want to talk to, try to not be a creep. You must have a pick up line.

You can have a smile on your face and you can casually compliment him/her on something that is unique about him/her- maybe a tattoo, or the haircut or something else. Ask his/her name and introduce yourself. Don’t decide to spend all the time there the first time as it might seem uncomfortable.