I find making-believe the dismal fool in front of me is an old family friend or a favourite aunt (as appropriate) and treat them as I would this well-loved friend/aunt - interest, courtesy, listen to them, sympathise. I find it helps curb my anti-social character (I am famously unable to suffer fools gladly, lack sympathy and inclined to tell people to 'bugger off' at the slightest provocation).