Gratuitous Grace
Bluelighter
^--- THIS! This is AWESOME advice. When I was in very early sobriety, and could barely say my own name, this is how I "retrained" myself. By just making casual conversation with strangers. Made observations, gave compliments, started stupid chit-chat in totally insignificant situations. I became a conversationalist again. And then when things turned from insignificant to significant, I was able to start saying the right thing at the right time. With ease and spontaneity. Nothing forced.Just speak to strangers. While you're waiting at the bus stop or while you're sitting in a train to work..
Doesn't always have to be girls, you can practice your SOCIAL skills on guys too. Expand your social circles
Don't force a conversation, that can be terribly annoying.