TL/DR: working with guys who give you shit can help develop social aptitude.

Story: First post on main sub so I'll keep it short. I've been working in a plant as an engineer for the last year and I noticed a significant change in my interactions with everyone since finding TRP.

In an environment with a lot of male co workers, especially the kind of men who work with their hands, they tend to give each other shit a lot. Usually how I would handle it was to laugh it off. Some of the other engineers get legitimately offended by it.

Recently I have been reacting differently. I have been better at coming up with comebacks, using agree and amplify, etc. At first this was a conscious effort, but now I react almost autonomously. And I am able to tailor my response depending on the person. TRP helped me learn what to do, and my job helped me practice.

Though it's a bit different, passing shit tests given by women has become a breeze. There are still some things I am learning to deal with, such as ASDs and the LMD, but for just getting into the game after a 10 year, oneitis fueled marriage, I'm doing pretty well.

Lessons Learned: Confidence and social strength comes from practice, so practice with everyone. It will become natural faster than you think.