So at a bookstore/coffee shop I (22M) was doing some computer work and a very beautiful girl walked in with two of her friends. I was sitting on a balcony above the counter where you order drinks and am comfortable with the workers and would occasionally join in conversation with them. These girls sat down at the bar seats at the counter and began chatting with the young high school kids who work there. I didn’t exactly open them but would join their conversation when it was something I was knowledgeable or interested in because I could clearly hear them as they were very close. Eventually they left without me legit talking to any of them though. A few hours later another group of girls walked in and one was very attractive. I looked at her and won the stare, i.e. she broke eye contact after a few seconds. I caught her gaze a few more times but they walked out while I was still in the middle of something so I did’t talk to her either.

Eventually I pack my stuff up and leave and notice the second group is sitting outside and immediately try to think of something to say. I couldn’t come up with something I thought was good though so I just kept on walking to my car and left. I was pissed at myself for not saying anything but I’m still working on not putting attractive girls on pedestals and I guess had a relapse in this instance. Anyway, the small rural town I live in for another month before moving to LA for grad school has a car show every Friday night. I had dinner with my dad and then walked around with him at the show for a bit. Suddenly I notice attractive girl number 1 I saw today at the coffee shop and realized that I better not miss this second chance. So I went up to her and opened with something that we had briefly talked about earlier today and we ended up having an great conversation! Unfortunately she was only visiting family in this area and is going back home to another state tomorrow morning or I totally would have asked for her number.

This wasn’t really a success I suppose but I at least I redeemed myself after bitching out twice earlier today. Overcoming approach anxiety is super difficult having never been on a first date before and really only having platonic friendships with women. I’ve gotten one girls number before and she flaked on the date. I’ve had no success yet despite a few attempts but it’s got to happen soon!