I don't think the essay should include a description of how to gain social skills (unless the authors know a much better way of doing this than I do). I just think the essay should NOT say "don't worry about social skills or popularity". Depending on one's desired career, those skills can range from useful to necessary. Also, encouraging kids to only spend time with those they "like" often leads to them spending time only with those from similar backgrounds, with similar interests, which often limits their perspective and social flexibility.