how do you handle being around people when you find many irritating

I'm an introvert and can relate. I've found most people can't wait to expound on themselves and proceed from a self centered position, seeking to acquire personal gain from interactions. I'd be lucky if I got a thank you for helping most people. I've found the trick is to tell myself to calm down, at least long enough to listen what they have to say (usually about themselves) fairly and respond if I have anything to say. Then return to doing my own thing.

Parties can be rough, but basically rinse and repeat. If really pressed, I improvise with some cool jokes or an excellent card trick (prepared beforehand) that 'wows' them, then quietly withdraw which subtly creates an air of prestige. This makes a good impression and that's how they remember you.

I've learned some of these skills in graduate school on how to 'turn on' or 'switch' from my natural introvert state to an extrovert expression by observing and emulating extrovert behavior. It's not really me, but it works so long as you remember to [i]come back to yourself. [/i]Hope this helps.