Public transport
Now this one is for the more brave hearted as you risk being rejected publicly but how amazing to think your new partner could be getting on at the next stop? It’s a great place to meet someone new in real life but you do not have the luxury of being shy as you don’t know how long the persons journey will last. You can make a subtle move by commenting on the commute or pointing something out that’s going on around you. But be quick because your new date might be getting off at the next stop.
Blind date
Who needs Cilla Black when you’ve got friends that can set you up on a date. A blind date is a win win because you get to meet someone new IRL and the responsibility of setting it up is down to your friend. If the blind date doesn’t work out then just ask another friend to have a go.
Eye contact
If someone catches your eye when you’re out, there’s no harm in letting them see that. Eye contact serves as an acknowledgment that I am checking you out, and would love to approach you for a conversation. When someone is flirting, eye contact also tends to be more intense and more frequent.
If you’re looking to turn the heat up between you and the other person, holding eye contact for longer than usual could be the way to go. Sustained eye contact can lead to feelings of love and can draw their attention away from the others.
The next time you are in a public place or social event. Let’s say you’re at a party, if you see a person you like, just look at them and smile. If they look and smile back at you, you can interpret that as a sign of approachability. If the person looks away quickly, drop it and move on.
Ice breakers for approach
You can just go up to the person and say “hi” or if you have noticed something about their outfit you can compliment them for example, “that’s a really nice hat”. Or if you’re at the supermarket and you see someone you find attractive grab a bag of chips you can ask “are those good?” and then pay attention – if the person uses an open smile and continues the conversation, that’s usually a sign that they’re interested. If they don’t smile and answer abruptly, then just say “thanks” and move on – remember, don’t insist.
If you’re at the gym you can use the so-called “smoothie method”. So, for example, if you see someone you like you can ask if they know a good smoothie place around, or if your gym has a smoothie bar, you can ask them which one they recommend. If they’re interested, they will continue the conversation over a smoothie.
React to their jokes
Picture the scene: You’re chatting with someone you’re into and they keep cracking jokes. Don’t play coy. Laugh out loud and let them know you find them hilarious. Giggling at someone’s jokes can be effective because laughter indicates liking. Humour is one of the most desirable traits when seeking a partner. This simple sign shows a potential partner that you find them funny and interesting, and they feel heard and validated. Also having a shared sense of humor speaks to compatibility.
Use appropriate touch
When you’re chatting to someone, gently touching their arm could let them know that you’re interested and allows you to form a bond. Touch also releases the hormone oxytocin that helps you feel bonded with one another. The more touch that takes place, the closer you feel to one another. Disclaimer: make sure you keep consent in mind when touching other people.
Get a pet
Pets are a great way to get chatting to stranger – we recommend getting one from an adoption agency and get a rescue dog.
Start a new hobby
If you want to meet people in real life, it is best to maximise the chances of being around masses. It helps increase your probability of finding someone you like. You can perhaps try volunteer activities or gigs, including traveling groups or hikes.
Speed dating and singles nights
Now the idea of being on a conveyor belt of dates in one night might seem overwhelming but speed dating and singles nights allow you too meet a lot of singles in a short space of time. Everyone there is in the same single situation so there’s no need to be nervous or shy about it. And even if you don’t manage to get a date then at least you got to spend a few hours making new acquaintances and having some fun.