8 fun ways to meet The One

Do you have the “Tired of Being Single” blues? Are you tired of seeing happy couples snuggling on park benches and walking hand-in-hand in the mall? Don’t be relegated to another night alone with the DVD player and a pint of premium ice cream. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that!) There’s no need to be envious of those strolling lovers’ lanes or cringe at the sight of a card store decked out in red and pink hearts. You too can find the match of your dreams by choosing the best places to meet the right people.

The bar or club scene rarely works. How can you meet an ideal match when you’re guzzling drinks and searching for your soul mate through beer goggles? Rather, think about your interests and values and the interests and values you’d like in a potential mate, and then head to the places where these traits can be best realized. Sound confusing? It’s not … read on.

1. Take up a sport or hobby — You’ll meet a guy or a gal in their element. You’ll see what gets this person smiling and how they deal with competition, defeat and success. Plus, you’ll have something in common to discuss, other than the weather or politics. Golfing is one way to network. You can chat while strolling the links and get in some exercise in the process.

2. Volunteer — If you desire an altruistic do-gooder, a person who puts others’ needs ahead of their own, check out not-for-profit organizations. You can be won over by their charitable spirit and easily strike up conversations. Plus, you’ll be doing something positive for people in need.

3. Get exercising — Sign up for a bike tour, walk or run that is designed to raise money for a cause. Often, the people who participate in these events have good hearts and are physically fit. If fitness is a requirement for your perfect guy or gal, what better way to measure that then when you’re both out getting your heart pumping?

4. Be spiritual — Regularly attend services at your house of worship. You’ll meet members of the opposite sex who share the same values and religious beliefs.

5. Head to a salon — A new trend emerging is salons offering a day of pampering and a chance to mingle with other singles. Be daring and go for a dramatic new cut or color, and strut your stuff as you walk around decked out in the salon’s stylish smock and towel accessories.

6. Get a dog — It may seem like the oldest pick-up strategy in the book, but a dog forces you to be outdoors (at least three times a day for bathroom breaks), and pets naturally attract attention. Head to a neighborhood dog-friendly park, and connect with others who are also pampering their pooches.

7. Take a vacation … alone — Maybe limiting yourself to your local dating scene is preventing a match from being made. Schedule a trip to another state or country and go exploring. Or go on a singles-only tour group. You could find a mate while you take in the local culture.

8. Embrace blind dates — Don’t be so quick to run for cover when a potential setup is announced. Your friend, coworker or distant relative might really know that guy or gal of your dreams. Have fun with the adventure of meeting new people. You just may be pleasantly surprised at who you’ll be introduced to.