I was a desperately shy child who often avoided people and phone calls.

I’m older now and more self confident, but I have also done a lot of work on my social skills. A LOT!! Yet, sometimes I still feel like a fish out of water. Sometimes I speak up and wish I hadn’t. Sometimes my small talk is non existent and I just feel uncomfortable trying to fit in. Because I am empathetic and strive to see everyone’s point of view, sometimes I feel like I don’t actually ‘fit’ anywhere. That can be quite overwhelming and lonely. Sometimes this perspective taking also means I overthink situations, create drama for myself and feel hurt.

I suspect that social skills for many of us need to be a constant work in progress.  No wonder so many kids struggle.  It’s really quite a minefield!!