So I was having a walk today and just saying 'hi' to random strangers (no motive, I just wanted to practice smiling and greeting new people - to get over the jitters in the long run).

Anyway, I said that to one man and kept walking. He said hi, then he called out 'where are you walking?' And he joined me for a walk as we were going the same direction for a few minutes. We talked a fair amount - then he asked me for coffee. I was a bit taken aback (and to be honest I looked/felt quite scruffy) so just talk his number and said we should do it some other time.

Guys - I used your advice and it worked! I didn't have to do much legwork but it was so surprising how simply having a skip in your step, being smiley and greeting someone (rather than the usual avoiding eye contact etc.) makes a big difference.

Small steps.