Shy Guy Dating Tips:

Dating is one of those great life experiences that we all go through. If you are a shy guy, it can be a lot harder than for many others. But there isn't any reason to miss out. Here are a few good dating tips to learn ways to do it right - and to avoid the ways of doing it wrong.

1. Have an idea of what you are looking for
As a single man, when you decide to date, spend some time making sure you know what you are looking for in a woman. Is it a casual encounter? A longer term commitment? Or maybe even marriage. Be honest with yourself and know what will make you happy. At the same time, be flexible. The dating world is unpredictable, but that can be part of the fun. Enjoy what comes your way.

2. Relax
To make the best first impression, you will want to appear relaxed and in control. If you seem nervous, who knows how the other person is going to interpret that. Just remember that all relationships - the ones that last 50 minutes to the ones that last 50 years - started with a first date. Remember that one of the best shy guy dating tips is to not look desperate - women can smell that a mile away.

3. Have fun
The most important thing to remember is to have fun! Searching for the right woman can be a fantastic experience, filled with anxiety and emotion. Approach it with a positive attitude and think of the search as being as much fun as the catch, and you will have a better time. Flirt when you want to and enjoy it. Make it easy for yourself by setting your mind to the fact that this is something fun.

4. Feel good about yourself
Dating can be a tough process. You need to be prepared by feeling good about yourself. If there are things you would like to change, now is the time. Join the gym, learn a new language, start eating better - anything that will make you feel good about yourself. This will give you the confidence to show yourself off, and to be able to deal with any rejection that comes along.

5. Know yourself
Spend some time getting to know yourself better. Think of how you would like a woman to see you. If you know that you are a fun and positive guy, keep reminding yourself of that, so it shows through to her. You are probably looking for the same in the woman you want to date.

6. Be a good communicator
Communication is the name of the game here. Visual, verbal, and subtle communication is what it takes. Be consistent and honest with the woman you are dating. You will always find women that are playing games, but you are smart enough to see through that sooner or later. Ask questions and be a good listener. Use all types of communication: the phone, a written note, an email - whatever comes to mind. All of this will show your interest in her.

7. Don't be afraid to make mistakes
Do something unexpected. Be impulsive and see what happens. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and learn from the experience. If she is the right one, she will appreciate your creativity. And if she isn't, you just might have fun anyway

8. Be prepared to spend
To have a successful dating experience, you will need to spend time, money, and effort. Nothing is free in the dating world. It will take some time. Most single women - and single men - who date want something to happen immediately, but we have all found out that doesn't happen. You have to spend money to find the right person and spend money to make yourself ready, so don't let the expense get you down. And most importantly, be ready to work hard to get what you want.

9. Use common sense
Dating isn't rocket science. One of the best dating tips for a single man is to use common sense. We all have it, so use it. If it makes sense to you to do something, then you are probably on the right track.

10. Don't go it alone
While you are the one doing the dating, there are ways to have support to help you along the way. Get your friends involved; let them know what you are up to. If they are real friends they will support you and will provide you an opportunity to talk. Surround yourself with people you respect and listen to what they have to say. Don't be afraid to listen to advice - particularly from your female friends.

11. Be safe
Be safe, in all senses of the word. When you are making initial contact with a woman you haven't met before, do it in a public place. Make sure you know as much as you can about her before you provide any personal information, such as your phone number, or where you live. Don't take chances and use common sense. If you feel like she is being too mysterious, then it is probably time to move on.

12. Leave when you need to
Know when it is time to leave. Don't be afraid that you are losing your only chance to be with someone. There are going to be other women. Don't settle for something that isn't right for you. Breaking up is never fun, but we all know that we recover. And if you aren't the one initiating the breakup, remember that this is part of the experience as well. Rejection is tough, but keep in mind of what might be next - it could be even better!

If you have other shy guy dating tips for single men, we always want to know. Send us your best dating tips.