Originally Posted by
belfpala
(except sometimes, but that's in interactions where it's ok to make it 100% about yourself temporarily, e.g., talking about a breakup to a best friend or something).
Basically, people are just going to assume you're intelligent, that you interact in a "normal" way, that you're comfortable with it. Until you prove otherwise. If you need help socializing from total strangers... the advice above is good. Just hang out and listen. Respond if you have something pertinent to say, or start a conversation if something strikes you and you're comfortable with it. You might seem like the quiet weirdo sitting there, but don't let that stress you out... instead, keep listening.