As a rather introverted individual with a lot of issues when it comes to striking up conversation. I find I'm actually really good at it, but I need to say tha

As a rather introverted individual with a lot of issues when it comes to striking up conversation. I find I'm actually really good at it, but I need to say that first word before anything happens. The only advice I could give is similar to ferris' 4 hour work week advice, start small and practice. If you can't ask someone for the time, a lighter, or for directions you won't be able to walk up to a cute girl and say "hi". So start with those small every day questions anyone should feel comfortable being asked by a stranger. Even if you know exactly what time it is and where you are, this doesn't matter. Also as a helper, ask people you aren't intimidated by, a non female, an older person etc etc. Once you're comfortable with those things, start by randomly smiling at people, then start saying hi. Then start saying more. You'll get a few people who ask you to not, walk away, or look at you weird but that's ok, its all part of it. Remember you will never see these people again.