I have started. I went out and spoke to people I wouldn't normally have. It was fun, but awkward in places. I have realised how much I need to do this. I never realised how awkward I get sometimes, that needs to change.

I went to a cider drinking evening with two [f]riends. Got talking to a few friends of friends that I have never met before. Then a 2 set at end of bar ~ commented on some crazy guy in a latex thong. 2 drunk guys stumbled up to us and I started talking to them and they stayed with our group for a bit. Finally, while walking home asked girl sitting alone on a bench (HB8) if she knew the the time.

Next day I went to a local farmers market in town. Spent a while chatting to a couple of the people who work there including some HBs. They were very easy and fun to talk to, not surprisingly they knew a lot about the stuff they were selling and had some interesting things to say. I also complemented one girl on some big flower thing in her hair and made some comment to a random guy building early on a Sat morning.

It all went pretty well, no strange looks from anyone, no negative replies. I'm not really surprised but I am pleased. I know I was making it easy on myself but I feel I need to. I went into the new shopping bit in Bristol afterwards and couldn't bring myself to say anything. There was so many people all trying to get somewhere... ah well. I should focus on the successes.

I didn't get into any conversations, I probably could have with the girl on the bench, she seemed quite friendly but I just wasn't thinking about that at the time.

New Goals:

  • 8 weeks left.
  • mark (on my calendar) every day where I leave the house.
  • mark every day where I approach someone (that I wouldn't normally)
  • make sure I leave the house at least 3 times a week.
  • find a local lair (cardiff/bristol/bath) and meet them. If possible go out with those guys a few times a week.

I need to think less and do more. I have to get over this approach anxiety.