Instead of going out to sarge (I hate this word, but it's what I've been doing really) I'd go about my business normally and approach opportunities as they arose. I want "on" to be like breathing - natural. At the end of the day, I approached 3 sets.

Set 2, HB 7.5:

I was in Pitt St Mall shopping for hat when I saw this HB 7.5. I was wearing earphones and tried to play punishment-reward.
Pencil: (Sees HB 7.5) Excuse me, (I know we're meant to say this, but I'm trying calibrate openers to the situation) , I know I'm a random guy but I noticed you there and would regret not starting a conversation.
HB 7.5: ( A small smile appears) Oh, ok. I'm at work.
P: What do you do?
HB 7.5: Sell haircuts.
P: What do recommend (takes off hat).
HB 7.5: I can't even do a high cut (type of style)
P: I'm Pencil (holds out hand).
HB 7.5: I'm HB 7.5.
P: Ooo your accent, where's it from?
HB7.5: England.
P: Did the shit weather force you here?
HB 7.5: Yes.
P: I recognise you're at work, I understand that. (Pulls out mobile phone) I would like to see you again.
HB 7.5: Oh I have a boyfriend.
J: It was worth a shot.

Set 3, HB 8.5:

I was passing through Centrepoint foodcourt on the way to the bustop when I saw this HB 8.5 walk past me.

P: (Sees HB 8.5) Excuse me, I know I'm a random guy and this will come as a shock to you, but I noticed you walking past and I'd regret not starting a conversation with you.
HB 8.5: That's a bit weird (smiles).
We start walking towards DJ's.
P: Isn't it funny how you're day can change?
HB 8.5: It is. Do you normally do this?
P: Yeah, I'm socially liberated. What are doing today?
HB 8.5: Shopping. That's good for you.
HB 8.5 notices I've got headphones.
HB 8.5: What are you listening to?
P: Lose Yourself by Eminem, it's great for confidence.
She smiles says the word weird a 1-2 times more.
P: I'm Pencil by the way.
HB 8.5: I'm HB 8.5
P: Guys never do this, all they'll do is go to a bar and drink waiting for the right time top approach. It's bad for mentally and physically.
HB 8.5: Yeah. I'm going upstairs.
P: Do you have a boyfriend?
HB 8.5: It was nice meeting you.

How do you lessen the shock while avoiding indirect approaches? Or can you reframe it for her?
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i think you may be coming on a little too strong for most women. one big problem is there is no real structure behind it. your saying a cool opener, you seem to have the confidence to open sets but your not getting them hooked, no false time constraint so they feel as though they are rambling along in a conversation with you and it may never end until they stop it (which they are doing). give a time constraint and also build some attraction with DHVs. that may help a bit.
(personally i like to tell girls i am hungry and have them accompany me to the pretzel stand)

B-Sweet

I used to do this before I learnt of the mystery method etc. I just approach girls directly. I did not get far though it helped me with Approach Anxiety and even after being shot down it felt good and helped me with confidence. Definetly start doing indirect approaches and running game on them.

I think you maybe coming on too strong. I know it is hard to show interest in a girl who is walking past you but if you can walk with her in the same direction you can show interest in her and then you can ease the number close. I don't think a woman will just give you her number based on you telling her (or implying) she is hot and you want to hook up.

I think your direct approach is good if it got smiles etc. But you really must show her that you find her interesting for something else other than just her looks.

maybe its just me, but heres some stuff i thought
- u didnt wait for any iois,
- shaking hands seems kind of lame, (but im in high school maybe ur just older.)
-i think ur opener was flat, i mean thats like what i say to family members (exclude the shit part)
- pulling out your phone would be intimidating to people