Looking for a Date

If you are looking for a date, you likely don't have to look very far.  Casual encounters are around every corner…at the water cooler, in line at the grocery store, even at the coffee shop.  It is a myth to believe you can only look for a date at singles clubs.  Potential dates are everywhere; you only have to open your eyes to the possibilities.

My sister once went on a date with a guy whom she met waiting for an ABM to be repaired.  My cousin met her husband when his dog got off the leash and dug up the flowers in her front yard.  Circumstantial meetings are all around us, and those willing to seize the opportunity go from looking for dates to finding dates.

• Make Small Talk Count: How many times have you been standing in line and casually chatted up the person next to you? This is especially true of women, who are quite comfortable striking up a conversation in line. How much information can you get from small talk with a total stranger? Usually, quite a bit. References to work, social activities, or family usually dominate the conversation. (Gentlemen, take note: if a nice woman is engaging you in conversation, be pleasant and responsive.) Before you rush off, why not get your new friend's name and phone number; maybe arrange to meet for coffee sometime?
• The Friend of a Friend of a Friend: Everyone's had that twenty-second introduction while on your way to or from somewhere else. The funny thing is, once you have been introduced, you may notice that person from time to time within your circle. Perhaps at the mall, the diner or even the gas station. This gives you the perfect chance to expand on the introduction so you have more than just a nodding acquaintance. Openers are easy, even if you forget the name (which, in this case, is perfectly excusable). Therefore, the next time you see that "friend of so and so", reintroduce yourself properly and get that small talk going.
• Stop Saying No to Everyone: Believe it or not, there are single men and women out there right this minute, who complain that they cannot find a date, and then reject every possibility. These people find fault and excuses not to date absolutely everybody. Too thin, too short, too old, too young, too tanned, too rich, too poor…it's always something. If you are one of these people, you need to learn how to take a little risk once in a while. Why not fill out an online dating profile and have at least one date with everyone who is a match to you! Seriously, once you get past your own insecurities and stop making excuses, you will be amazed at what a good time you can have and what fabulous people are out there for you! Not every date will be perfect, but at least you'll have plans for Saturday nights.

When it comes to looking for a date, the best thing you can do is keep an open mind and be proactive.  A positive attitude is all it takes to turn a chance encounter with a total stranger into a fun filled evening for two!