Social Circle: 2008-08-23

I went to a friend’s party. I didn’t know anyone other than the host, though.

One girl said my shoes were cute, I thanked her.

I tried to socialize. I talked to one guy about video games and the misdeeds he and the host did as kids. We separated after a while.

I was solo for most of the party. I tried to do the opposite of what everyone else was doing: while other guys hung out near one wall, hung out at the other wall. Most people were also comfortable talking to their preexisting friends. I had no friends, but I did see this one girl who was kind of cute. She was being followed by the host’s dog, so I very obviously and directly walked across the room to talk to her. I noted that the dog really likes her. Or maybe just her toes. We chatted about dogs, but she later walked away.

I had to leave early, so I informed the host. To my surprise, he announced my departure to everyone. I didn’t say bye to anyone else specifically, I just waved to everyone as I left.

I was definitely cautious about my behavior at the party, because unlike at parks or bars, my reputation be remembered within the group. I’m glad I actively tried to stand out.