how to socialize with others？it really confuses me a lot

Socializing with others can indeed be a bit challenging at times, but with some practice and guidance, you can improve your social skills. Here are a few tips to help you socialize effectively:

1. Active listening: When interacting with others, make sure to actively listen to what they are saying. Show genuine interest by maintaining eye contact, nodding occasionally, and asking follow-up questions. This not only demonstrates your attentiveness but also encourages the other person to open up and feel valued.

2. Start with small talk: Initiating conversations with small talk is a good way to break the ice and establish a connection. Talk about neutral topics like the weather, current events, hobbies, or common interests. This helps create a comfortable and friendly atmosphere before diving into deeper conversations.

3. Show empathy and understanding: People appreciate when you show empathy and understanding towards their feelings and experiences. Be supportive and offer encouraging words when someone is going through a difficult time. This helps foster genuine connections and builds trust.

4. Body language: Pay attention to your body language as it plays a crucial role in effective communication. Maintain an open posture, smile, and use appropriate facial expressions to convey interest and friendliness. Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting, or looking distracted, as these may make others perceive you as disinterested or unapproachable.

5. Find common interests: Look for shared interests or hobbies that you can discuss with others. This makes conversations more engaging and enjoyable. Participating in group activities, clubs, or events related to your interests can also provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

6. Practice active participation: Engage actively in group conversations by contributing ideas, opinions, and asking questions. This shows your enthusiasm and encourages others to involve you in their discussions. However, make sure to strike a balance between sharing your thoughts and giving others a chance to speak.

7. Respect boundaries: Understand and respect personal boundaries. Not everyone may be comfortable sharing certain aspects of their lives or engaging in certain topics of conversation. Be mindful of this and avoid pushing someone to divulge information they are not comfortable with.

Remember, socializing is a skill that improves with practice. Don't be too hard on yourself if you face difficulties initially. Keep trying, be yourself, and focus on building genuine connections with others.