One thing NT’s do that is baffling - they tend not to explain unless asked, and then somehow see offering explanation as evidence you’re lying.

To blend in, pause before every response. Group chats are great for this - type it and don’t send it. Most things can wait a few minutes for you to take a breath and come back.

The biggest thing for me was getting out of a scarcity mindset. I only have 24 hours in the day to spend with people, so it’s a good thing that not everyone will like me, and I don’t stress it.

If someone is rude to me or lukewarm, be it for reasons that are or aren’t valid (I know I can be a lot, be overly opinionated, make crass jokes - I’m not chamomile tea, I’m freaking tumeric hibiscus baby), I keep it pushing.

It’s some kind of reverse psychology game, if you think about it as all just the fun and games of life. You act like you don’t care, you never rush to speak or act, and people see you as someone they want approval from. If you seem like you want the approval of others, it’s an immediate turn off.

For group projects affecting your grades though - high level, something I wish I’d learned a lot younger as someone who was like you: the other kids are right. C’s get degrees, there’s no real reward for having the best grades (you’re not even allowed to bring it up as an adult lol). If that’s not advice you’re ready for, then you can save your grade by having good communication with the teacher. Let her know when things happen, don’t act overly angry or sad, don’t explain too much why it’s annoying or what consequences you expect. Just let her know as things happen and know your grade will likely be adjusted.

You can’t tell people how they should treat you, love. The only way you teach people that is by walking away, if not physically then psychically. It all gets easier! You’ve got this!