So one of the things that I didn't do well is maintain eye contact when out an about.

I've been testing it out, maintaining eye contact with people as I walk by and it's been interesting to see how people react.

Most people will look at you then glance away quickly, this is what I used to do, others won't look at you at all and a few will give recognition.

People that maintain eye contact back I generally give a small head nod and a 'morning' response, which I'll tend to only get from older men.

Keep in mind I am maintaining a pleasant face as well, I'm not putting forth a hostile attitude. Think more of strolling through a small town and seeing neighbors etc. It's been an interesting study in how it makes me feel as an individual.

I feel more connected to my neighborhood for starters, I am starting to recognize more people than just the homeless guys and my interactions with them are increasing.

I'm a friendly and gregarious person by nature so this isn't overly difficult and I find the reactions I get are friendly and nice in turn.

I'm not staring at people either for the record, eye contact is maintained until either they turn away or a greeting is passed.

If you haven't tried it, it is worth doing and it's a small thing to implement with some quick returns to your self-confidence.

Remember, not hostile but pleasant faced and confident.

edit: sorry for the generalized field report, I see where I went wrong and will attempt to clean it up when I have time. Thank you for the feedback.