["Back then I was a big chicken and couldn't approach women, let alone get numbers.  But I discovered that the easiest way to overcome that irrational fear is to level with them like a friend, instead of seeing them as a prize to be won / objectified."]
That is a good approach! Has it been successful?
I used to be terrified of approaching attractive women, let alone get their numbers...but I found out the easiest way to overcome that irrational fear is to level with them like a friend, instead of a prize to be won / objectified.