How do I stop being so awkward around people I don't know well?

[Hotzone417]

Im visiting my brother and his girlfriend. I came with a few friends that I've known for a long time who im very comfortable around. My brothers girlfriend invited one of her friends. At first it wasn't too bad, but we kind of ran out of things to talk about. Im honestly kind of a quiet guy as it is, but I could tell she was trying to start conversations with me, but id give sort of short responses. I just didn't know what to say. Mostly because I was afraid to be myself around her in fear of looking like a fool. My brother is kind of like me, but he kept talking. I don't know what my problem is.

[Sonorous]

These things tend to be learned at early ages tbh. Like from school days. So if you're still struggling when you're older then there's probably no hope or you just need to do it more often to get warmed up again & let the brain do the rest.

I can easily have conversations with people but I just prefer not to because I know that people don't always have my best interests at heart so the less they know about me, the better. Because my shadow wants them to piss me off. It's waiting.

[MountainMetal]

Just like learning a video game, you can learn to talk to anyone with the right methods. Also not every awkward encounter is your fault, i guarantee other people can cause awards situations and it's not only on you.