beginner, with a question about approaching

I've been going out 3-4x a week now for 5 weeks. I've been improving ALOT. I'm starting to get a hang of holding a conversation, and even had a few number closes. But no dates, and all those numbers have flaked so far.

The question I'm having is, is what I'm doing working? I always go DIRECT, but I've recently read that you should only go direct when you are a little more advanced. I know that opinion openers are advocated for those that are just starting out, but I don't like the idea of using canned lines or routines.

I guess the question is, should I keep going direct? What should a beginner like me do?

Also, I have a tough time holding a conversation, but I'm starting to get a hang of it.