I want to improve my social skills because I keep running into the same problem and I do not understand what I am doing wrong.
For most of my life, I have struggled to build lasting friendships. I was bullied a lot growing up, and because of that I think I may have a hard time understanding social situations clearly.
Over the years, I have had several situations where I thought I was getting along well with people, but later they became distant, excluded me, or cut contact without clearly telling me why. This happened in school, in online gaming groups, in hobby groups, and more recently at work.
The work situation affected me the most. I became friends with a coworker, and we talked a lot, spent time together outside work, and played games together often. Later, that person became distant, asked for space, and eventually said they wanted no contact with me.
Because this pattern has happened more than once, I am trying to be honest with myself and ask whether I am missing social cues or crossing boundaries without realizing it.
How to tell whether someone sees me as a close friend or just an acquaintance
How to notice when someone wants more distance
How often it is normal to text or invite someone without becoming too much
How to ask if something is wrong without making the situation worse
How to build friendships at a healthy pace instead of becoming too attached too fast
I am already seeing a therapist, but I also want practical advice from people who are good at reading social situations.
What are the signs that someone is uncomfortable or pulling away? What are some common mistakes people make when they become attached too quickly? How can I build friendships in a way that feels normal and respectful?