Struggling with Social Nuances as an Animal Trainer Who Loves Plants

I’ve always found it easier to read animals than people probably why I ended up as a trainer. But lately, I’ve noticed some social situations leave me stumped. Like, how do you handle small talk when your idea of fun is discussing rare ferns or training techniques? I’ll geek out over a new plant species, then realize the other person’s eyes have glazed over.

And then there’s the balance between being direct (which works great with animals) and softening feedback for people. Anyone else in a similar spot? How do you adapt without feeling like you’re faking it? Bonus points if you’ve got tips for weaving niche interests into everyday conversations naturally.

Honestly, I just own my niche interests most people respect passion. If they zone out, I switch to asking about their hobbies. Directness works if you frame it as enthusiasm, not criticism.

Wow, what a revolutionary concept being passionate and considerate. Who knew people liked that?

Ugh, the audacity of people discovering basic human decency like it’s some groundbreaking revelation. eye roll