Give it Your Best Shot

Last week I encouraged those who are looking to meet someone to try something new. Now here’s the rest of the story: you need to really give it your best shot. Too often I see singles missing opportunities because of their approach. Here are some ideas for making the most of your efforts:

• Take an active part in a spiritual community. You don’t have to be an official member to attend regularly and stay afterward to meet people. Join a committee or volunteer, especially for activities that involve lots of people including those outside the organization.

• Give a group you tried six months ago another try. New members join all the time and leadership changes, making it possible that your experience now could be quite different than the last time.

• Be interested in other people. Rather than worry about the impression you’re making, focus on getting to know them. People respond to sincere attention, so don’t overlook this simple practice.

• Learn how to work the room. Susan RoAne’s How to Work the Room is a great resource. Sitting with a crowd of people or standing to the side behind a pillar will not encourage others to approach you.

• Be sure to give each group or event a fair chance. Don’t leave after 30 minutes because you didn’t spot the love of your life when you walked in. Someone special may walk in the moment after you leave.

Perhaps the most important action to take is choosing the right attitude. Decide that you’ll have a good time. Tell yourself that there will be interesting people there who will want to get to know you. Make up your mind to have fun, and you almost always will!