I'm 35 and single, I used to be quite a social person (I kinda had to be working as a bouncer for several years). Almost 3 years ago I moved from a fairly large city where I had a plethora of friends and a busy social life. I dated often and enjoyed a variety of activities with diverse groups of friends and acquaintances. I felt at home in most any situation. It was nice. Here in North Dakota I work stupid long hours and don't know very many people. I have turned into quite the recluse actually. It has caused some forms of social anxiety that has been debilitating.
Last night that changed. This morning I had a bad hangover and smelt like strippers and regret.
A few of my friends have moved up to North Dakota and have been trying for at least a month (unsuccessfully) to get me to end my self imposed house arrest. We went to a hole in the wall gentleman's club and met some nice bartenders security and dancers. With the aid of a little social lubricant I had some interesting conversations with employees and patrons. I drank way to much and spent entirely way to much money, but I enjoyed myself.
Coming out of that shell is hard. It's uncomfortable. It is awkward. But once I got out I had fun. It was nice to let my hair down and stretch a bit.