I'm not the most friendly-looking guy, but this approach has worked for me a few times:

"Hi. I'm Allen. You look like a very interesting person, and I would really like to have a cup of coffee with you-- no strings. Just a cup of coffee and a conversation."

If they panic, they aren't really my type of friend, anyway. And I'm always clear about my relationship status, so they don't think I'm swinging a pick-up line at 'em. It doesn't always work out (even if they accept the coffee), but I've had some great conversations over the years.

And yeah, I'm all about the direct approach.

Shoot! Go for it! You never know! They might be just as excited about you going up to them as you might be to try and befriend them! Life is too short to not do what you want to do.

That's how I met and became close with Quinne, so I say go with it, I love when people are like that

LOL! I'm the same way when I like someone... I end up feeling like a huge idiot... lol... or keep my mouth shut and regret it...

You should follow your heart. From what I gather on the playground, that shouldn't be a problem for you.

If I go by my experiences, the best way to find a friend is to try and date someone, and vice versa.

Well, I love Patti Smith, but I love Wire more. No contest!

Its Funny that you said it like that! In the 7th grade I was new AGAIN since my family moved all the time. I didnt know anyone. Then there was this girl that turned out to be new too. We were in Gym orintation and she comes straight up to me and goes "Will you be my Friend" I was like "Sure" and we have been BEST FRIENDS ever since! I was so glad she did that took some pressure off me and made me feel more comfortable. The funniest thing is EVERYONE thought we were sisters from day one and we had just met! But sometimes taking that leap an just walking up to someone and asking to be there friend is really rewarding. I know thats not always the case but you never know until you try! Hugs-ireland

If it's a dude you want to be friends with, consider it done. If it's a woman, um, please find out and let me know.

I am lame and shy with strangers If I approach them I take AGES to pluck up the courage and when I speak my heart is racing so hard I can't hear anything!
Sigh!

i approach strangers. think of the movie eternal sunshine! all balls.

I have done that...it actaully turned out well lomao

For goodness sakes NO don't restrain yourself..more people in this world need to be touched by your vibrance!!

SPOILERS! (Click to view)

No for real!! Please be my friend!!

I'd be shy if I was trying to impress a girl - I mean, if I felt sexually attracted - but I do start random conversations with people. The worst - and most common - answer is: they walk away. No one ever called me names, or kicked me so I'll jsut keep doing it.

Funny enough I don't seem to have kept any of those for a very long period of time but I mostly ended up having a beer or going to a movie with the ones that responded well.