Brand new here. I've concluded my only chance to get numbers/dates is by cold-approaching strangers in public places. Most often it would be at the grocery store, drug store, etc. Can this work or is it too creepy?

I prefer to just smile, introduce myself, and ask if the girl is single. I can't usually think of any good flirting topics and I figure I may as well cut to the chase.

I'm 40, ok looking, good job. Divorced 2 years and haven't dated since.

Last week I tried this type of approach at Costco. First time I worked up the nerve. She said "no" when I asked if she was single and looked put-off. Maybe because I am too old for her??? Probably in her 20's. But I felt much better than I would have if I had chickened out, which is what I usually do.