This is an interesting concept from neuroscience that I believe may have some implications to the world of pick-up. In a basic sense it is stating that if an experience or event triggers on repeated occasions the same set of neuronal pathways, then these are likely to become connected to one another on a physiological level. In the earliest of experiments monkeys fingers were sewn together and the neuronal circuitry studied after a period of time. As it was impossible for the monkey to move one finger without the other, the two nerve pathways for each finger essentially emerged, becoming one. When the fingers were un-sewn from each other, the opposite happened, the neural pathways now independent of each other separated again in to individual pathways. Far more complicated studies, many to do with addictions have since been done with the same results on a fundamental level.

I believe, or for a better use of words hypothesize for a large percentage of the community, we have essentially ‘wired together’ circuits from the limbic system to do with fear, anxiety and stress, with the thought pattern of cold approaching a beautiful women. We have dwelled and thought for so long about how many bad things might happen and negative reasons to justify not approaching that it has become impossible for us on a physiological basis to even imagine approaching a beautiful woman, without also activating pathways associated with fear and anxiety.

However I also believe this opens a window of opportunity. Scientists are becoming increasingly aware of the ‘plasticity’ of the human brain and its ability to remodel neuronal circuits. If an individual managed to find a way to trigger the mental process of approaching a woman with the activation of the mesolimbic reward system, then this would lead to positive feelings that could be compared to a mild version of the experience one has from taking cocaine. In other words if one rehearsed memories or experiences that make them feel really good or on a natural high and tied these to approaching women, they could potentially rewire this circuitry.

I’m guessing this also explains why the BEST way still to diminish approach anxiety is to experience success. You approach a set, successfully get her number/ K-close/ whatever and are rewarded for this accomplishment by a dopamine release from the mesolimbic system that makes you feel really good. All of a sudden the circuitry link between approaching women and feeling good is strengthened, and so the next time you do it, it becomes a little easier. This also works on a two way system, as you strengthen the positive association, the negative association is weakened. Thus why a man that has experienced success on several occasions is unlikely to become overly affected if a set blows him off.

Beautiful post!! My friend, you are onto something. I, myself, am taking general psychology this semester, and have learned about the plasticity of the brain. New neural connections can be made. I learned this from NLP too. The more you think positive thoughts, the more positive receptor sites you create in your brain. I don't know why the pick-up community doesn't talk about this much, but then again, the community is evolving. -cshadyp