In many ways, I feel similarly. However, “this one weird trick” got me out of it. Think of networking as something you do to find like-minded complex-abstract-problem-solvers. You’re just finding fellow nerds.

The algorithm is simple: ask people what they do, why they do it, and who they know. Then contact those people, and name-drop their friend, mention interests you might have in common, and ask to meet each one. Repeat. Follow up on people to let them know you appreciated meeting with them (or not… If you didn’t really appreciate the meeting). If you get the sense that someone is looking for help and you’re interested in what they’re doing, offer your help. The worst thing that can happen is they say no.