Hello.

I've been lurking for a while, and have absorbed most of the RP mantras - Heavily focused on my career, haven't missed a workout session in months, improved my posture and wardrobe, cut off video games and garbage food, what little spare time I have is spent reading, cooking, guitar practice etc.

However, as you've probably guessed from the title, I can't seem to make the tiniest progress when it comes to interaction with women. I literally just spent two hours after work walking around downtown with the sole purpose of approaching girls, and couldn't do it. It just NEVER seemed like the right time. The girl was on the phone, she was with another guy/girl/group, she had earphones on, she was looking away, she was too old/fat/ugly/whatever the fuck other bullshit excuse I came up with to rationalize being a pussy. Felt like a complete moron the entire ride back home.

I've read Models by Manson, and also saw some specific exercises suggested here to get over this, like starting with eye contact, moving to a casual "Hello" and then an actual conversation. I'm obviously stuck in the "Hello" stage. I can literally hold eye contact for hours, but I might as well be walking around with a gag on my mouth.

Any other practical advice you guys can come up with is much appreciated.

Thanks.