Hi, my name is Patrick. I have social problems in many areas,
especially in making friends and dating. I do have a current social
problem and was wondering if anyone has advice for me. I haven't
really had any girlfriends (or dated in general) and am somewhat
embarrassed about this, since I am 22 (even though this embarrassment
is probably my anxiety showing). Anyways, at my current job there's
a girl I would like to at least talk to (and possibly go on a date
with sometime), but I am 'inexperienced' in this area and have
trouble talking to people I don't know (especially someone I am
attracted to). Another dilemma is I have been working at my job and
noticed her for more than a year (I work in a big store with a lot of
people, and we work near each other, although not in the same area
where contact is necessary). Every time I see her I can't even make
eye contact with her, much less acknowledge her when passing her,
etc. After such a long time, how can I 'break the ice' and just
start speaking to her (won't she think 'Why did he finally say
something?'). Will this look weird if this 'guy' that has never even
acknowledged her just start talking to her, etc? Any advice is
greatly appreciated. Thanks.