Dear Coyfish~
I'd like to give you a warm welcome here to the Forum . It has many friendly peple here, whether for serious talks of fun.
There was a recent report on the ABC that said up to 1/3 of Australians feel loneliness or disconnected. I'm not saying that to belittle your feelings, I'm offering it as encouragement. There may be some who are involved in social cliques, however there are many who are themselves lonely and looking for companionship
That gives you a built-in advantage, one person in three wants the same as you. I know it can be difficult to meet people and when you do difficult again to have conversations that last and lead to future meetings.
I guess intelligent practice might be the way. Working in the hospitality industry might not be ideal to meet people, depending on your job, but that does not mean you cannot be in other organizations where the sort of people you wish to meet may be prevalent. The RSPCA and animals are always a good start.
With conversation why not be open? Say straight up you have difficulty conversing and get help from the other person. If they are worthwhile they will try.
I do hope you came back and say what you think of these suggestions
Croix
