Hi all!

Well I have finally decided/ plucked up the courage to do this properly. I have recently moved to Cardiff (like 2 weeks ago) from a small rural area. As I am over 4 hours from everyone I know I really have to make a fresh start. I was recommended the game as a book a while back and knew the opportunities this community provides.
Outwardly I am confident and outgoing. However, I have developed a stupid defence mechanism. At school I was always shy around girls and didn't have any as friends. This led to being a looser and not knowing how to speak to them. Well a lot of this I have overcome with age (I'm now 26) but one last thing has remained. I learnt that if you show an interest or make a mistake people laugh at you. This means I now will do anything to avoid shattering my fragile ego.
Well as for the first time I am away from the area and the people who did this I can make a fresh start. I have read and watched a fair bit recently and like the ideas Gambler says. I can see the advantage of MM and stuff but I would much prefer to be a natural in approach.
Can anyone recommend the best route from here as I am willing to crash and burn loads but I have heard so many theories on openers I am slightly unsure what to try? Or would I just be best saying 'Hi then see if i can hold a conversation. I guess I could use something based on me being new to town as I am lol.
Either way thank you for all the help and advice available you guys are doing a great job helping us AFCs.

Indyj,

What you try with openers and strategy is completely your call and up to personal preference. I prefer David DeAngelo's approaching strategies. Typically that means using an opinion opener or being somewhat direct such as, 'you look nice so I figured I'd say hello.' When it comes down to it though, it's your call my friend. If you like being forward check out the Badboy Lifestyle or some of Gunwitch's stuff. If you like being casual and cocky/funny I'd say read up some of David DeAngelo's stuff.

Hope this helps.

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<Jac>