> You do it because if you don't, then you'll be worse off years later.

This feels hyperbolic. While I would agree that community and remaining connected are very important to overall health, I don’t feel like making a habit of talking to strangers is a prerequisite.

"I don’t feel like making a habit of talking to strangers is a prerequisite."

But if you practise that skill, you will then also be able to pick up a conversation with people you do find interesting.