There is nothing written in stone that we have to be cheerful and upbeat! That's what I have never understood, as someone on the autism spectrum, that I am expected to act a certain way. I am not a cheerful and upbeat person by my base nature, so why should I try to be somebody I'm not? I will socialize to the point that I am comfortable and not push- nor will I be pushed -into a situation that is outside of my comfort zone. This is new response for me in the last 10 years. Does it make me popular with a lot of people? No it does not, but I cannot live my life for others. I have to honor myself first. If that means stepping away from social engagement, I am fine with that. If others are not oh, well, that's their problem!
Ginger