I also have issues socializing so maybe I can help you, though the sources of our troubles may be different.    It's a lot easier when you find people who have stuff in common with you. Chances are, that's not going to be the average Chad or Trixie at the sports bar, and you're going to have to really search for some kindred spirits who you can socialize freely with.    You should find an activity you like that involves being social. Playing video games at home isn't social, but maybe find a place that has adult LAN parties or board game nights. LARP, join a band or a book club or a community choir; if you're religious, go to a church or find a hearth or coven in your area. You won't click with every person you run into, but at the very least you'll have more opportunities to practice your social skills.    If you're talking to someone and you get nervous, it's always better to call yourself out in a joking way: Yea, I'm being so totally awkward lol Hah! I get distracted and forget what to do with my face Sheldon Cooper is my spirit animal, right. It might lighten the mood with the other person, put them at ease if they're not sure what you're doing, or if they seem judgmental that kind of tends to soften them up because you just called yourself awkward and don't seem ashamed about it so they have no leverage. If you say something you intended to be funny and nobody laughs, you could play it off by laughing and saying something like That was funnier in my head, but oh well    Try not to get into the habit of feeling like you can ONLY be social with alcohol, IF that's something you encounter.    Read up on social skills and try to notice examples in everyday life. Get some sunglasses and go people-watching at the park, or walk around the mall. TBH, I learn new things this way.    Learn about fashion. Even if you have no interest in fashion fashion, learn to wear things that flatter your body shape and that make you feel confident and look like you have your life together. There are some articles of clothing that, for men, read as awkward and very manchild: athletic shoes while not doing athletic activity, shorts worn during temperatures that don't warrant short-wearing, hoodies, and graphic tees. The two latter are more flexible, as you can wear a well-fitting hoodie that's in good condition or a graphic tee with an otherwise grown man outfit, but never all four together. I'm not saying you have to be a fop, but clothes can help others look less critically at social shortcomings. Socially awkward and looking like you threw on whatever was on the floor? Not good. Socially awkward and well-dressed? Could be an eccentric genius.    That being said, use stereotypes concerning social awkwardness to your advantage, like being thought of as intelligent or having interesting, unusual interests, so cultivate those areas. For example, if you are an American familiar with British slang, use it casually in conversations; share interesting facts with other people if they are easy to tie into the conversation; share your geek experiences but make sure to provide context to those who might not be familiar.     Primarily, your goal should be self-improvement. Increase your level of health, increase your self-reliance, and increase your social skills and other things will fall into place more easily. Be open, but don't specifically troll for dates and don't be afraid to turn someone down, just always be honest.