Hi all. Long time lurker (W/a different account). Had something happen today that has inspired me to post. I have read The Game, have friends who are self proclaimed PUAs, and generally make a decent wingman. The past year I have worked away from the wingman role and more towards the PUA role. I don't have a problem with picking up women when I've had a few drinks (Read - Many), but sober, I can be somewhat reserved when approaching (AA) and carrying on with small talk.

Today, I was at the gym, and as part of my after workout routine, I usually hit the hot tub. I was the only one in there. A couple minutes later, an older gentleman, late 40's, jumps in as well. A minute or two went by and he started to talk to me

"Crappy weather this weekend, eh?"

Normally, I am reserved when people try to talk to me at the gym/pool, as I am just there to relax, not chat, but for some reason I felt this was a good opportunity to practice small talk and to ditch my social ackwardness. He and I talked for about 25 minutes, longer than I would normally stick in the hot tub for. A minute or two into the conversation I was leading the discussion. I got onto the topic of fishing/camping (I know of lots of good lakes and sites in the area), and was generally enjoying the chat. There were natural breaks in the flow of our chat, but otherwise I did my part to keep the chat going. I also maintained decent eye contact to show that I was engaged.

Anyways, the point I'm making is that I feel its good, whenever possible, to test yourself every day and keep your skills sharp, even if it is just talking to someone random.

Thoughts/suggestions?

*Edit - Words