I am 28/m. I had always felt manipulated or pushed in my teenage years by people around me. I never spent a lot of time with friends during that time. I was mostly at home with family just living in my head all the time. I have learnt to be comfortable with myself. Now, I am happy with me.

But I am now looking for a life partner. I come from a community where dating is not a common practice and even meeting random strangers at a party is not a culturally accepted practice. I don’t drink and I am working on my physical appearance as well. I had always ignored it since external validation from anyone was never my thing.

I am always super curious to meet interesting people. I come across as exciting, interesting person. I can handle and drive a conversation if the other person is slightly interested to have one with me. But often times I have realised I miss common social cues. I am trying to learn as much as possible but COVID situation provides very little opportunities to practice.

How can I practice my social skills which helps with my confidence? I have read and spent too much time overthinking stuff. How can I put things to the test? Any ideas?