PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Sometimes, socializing can be a sort of double-edged sword - especially if you're not naturally outgoing. You have to meet people in order to find a relationship…but you have to socialize outside your circle in order to meet new people. And we all know what "socializing outside your circle" looks like: too often, it looks like you standing on your own in a room full of chattering people, pretending to be fascinated by your gin and tonic. It looks a lot like being stranded.

While the idea of being on your own at a party where you know very few people is scary - or, to some, horrifying - there are some things you can do to overcome your fear. With the right state of mind and some of these easy tips, you can turn awkwardness into adventure. And maybe meet somebody special while you're at it.

1. Lower your expectations. Don't put pressure on yourself to meet the man or woman of your dreams, make lifelong friends, or even impress people. If you set your expectations on "I'm just gonna have fun," chances are you will. Decide what your expectations for the night are, and don't worry about shooting any higher. "Meet one new person" is perfectly reasonable - and perfectly doable.

2. Work on your confidence. While getting ready to go to a party or event where you will know very few people, take some time to boost your confidence. No, you're not perfect. But you have worth all your own, and your own separate attributes that make you special. You're not a kid who must define him or herself by a narrow standard set by others - so don't convince yourself that you are.

3. Mingle. When you're alone at a party, it can be tempting to want to stand in the corner and avoid all those scary strangers. But if you do that, everybody at the party will, well, stay a stranger. Wander around, smile at people, and keep moving - don't hide out next to the lonely cheese tray.

4. Search for interesting people. Remember, going to a party isn't about proving to others than you're fun - it's about having fun yourself. So look for people that catch your interest, either romantically or platonically. When a conversation or a person piques your interest, try to involve yourself. Sound like too much? Then at least stand nearby and show that you're interested and approachable - a smile can work wonders.

Remember, you're at this party for you - not them. So if a person or conversation seems interesting to you, assert yourself. You won't impress anybody by standing around with butterflies in your stomach.

5. Move on. You may find somebody who seems interesting, only to enter into small talk and find it, well…excruciating. Just because you've met and know one person at the party doesn't mean you need to stick by their side. Keep mingling, pretending you're confident, and striking up conversations. If you make the effort, you may just transform yourself from wallflower to belle of the ball. Or at least have a fun few hours.