After I became single, I realized (as everyone else does, I suppose), that meeting women became a lot harder post-graduation: I was no longer surrounded by tons of people I felt were attracted to me, and I'd entered a much different pool.

Except not really, you're just too much of a pussy to go hit on strangers. Whats stopping you from hitting on thay cute girl at the movies, the park, grocery store, street? You havent met girls because you never said hi.

I live in a large city, and my friends always tell me to put myself out there. So, after getting over my last breakup, I started approaching women. I've met a few people in my "friends life" that I felt were really special, but only a few: so most of the people I approach are strangers.

And? You're reliant on yourself to attract a woman, if you cant then you're doing something wrong.

I haven't had an incredible amount of luck. Sure, there's been some. I've gotten some numbers, and had some dates, but only a handful that have gone anywhere.

Again all on you. I had years where getting turned down was the very rare exception to the rule.

I talked to my friends about how I wanted a relationship, and in the year I've been single I really haven't felt anything close to what I felt had the potential for a long term partner. My guy friends asked me how often I was approaching women, and I told them it was about once or twice a week. They instantly told me that I should be approaching a few women a day to see any chance at success, but the stress there is just pretty large.

Bitch about one or the other but at least get something done instead of cry over both. Is it hard? Yeah. Now go be a man and fucking deal with it. Git gud fucker.

I frequently get shot down, and dealing with that a few times a day just seems like hassle

Ever think that constant rejection means you're making a constant mistake? Theyre all different but you're still the same. Maybe its in you and your behavior (protip it is). Learn to pick up chicks or enjoy ur hand.

I usually prefer to wait until someone makes clear contact with me (smiles at me, stares over, etc...) until I approach.

Would you also like a personal butler to wipe your asshole after every fart you take? Asking for too much here man.

Is this normal behavior for dudes my age?

Complaining about incel? Yup.

Should I be pushing myself to approach more people?

Do you wanna get a laid?

tl;dr: Wondering if I need to be pushing myself to approach more people.

Yeah.