Hello, fora. I'm new here, so pardon my awkwardness. I have a question for you guys:

Do any of you over-think what others say (or don't say) to you? For example, I tend to be pretty socially awkward, so sometimes I make comments that temporarily disarm others. Their responses to my strange choice of communication semantics range from a confused face and a laugh to an abrupt change of topic or uncomfortable silence. Some people think it's funny and cute that I'm eccentric and others...don't.

It wouldn't be an issue for me if I could discern what people are really thinking based on their reactions, but when I'm talking to someone I really care about, I remember every awkward, bizarre thing that I say to them (and their responses) and constantly question what their reactions really mean. Ironically, I feel like I've spent my whole life making people feel uncomfortable without meaning to, but I try so hard to make them feel at ease...and when I can't tell, I think about it over and over again and worry about it.

I have a professor whom I really like and care about. She is extremely intelligent and fascinating...and because I care so much about what she thinks, I remember every little thing I've said to her. I'm simultaneously extremely comfortable around her and extremely nervous. Her open, accepting, and considerate nature make me comfortable, but my awkwardness and self-consciousness make me nervous. When I get nervous, I say awkward things. When I say awkward things, I think about it over and over again...which makes me more anxious. It's a bad cycle.

I was wondering if anyone else experiences something like this on a regular basis. If so, has anything helped you? Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks, everyone.