Valentine’s Day is all about love, but let’s face it, it can also be a stressful time for everyone especially when it comes to meeting expectations for the big day. Add to that the difference between what men and women expect from their partners for Valentine’s. Will the two sides ever meet?

We all know that men are from Mars and women are from Venus, and sometimes our differences can mean we’re miles apart when it comes to our Valentine’s Day plans.

The New Year is all about making fresh starts so here are some tips to get 2015 off to a good one if you’re single and looking.

BE PROACTIVE

Break out of your comfort zone and change things up. Alter the dynamic of what you’re doing to meet people. Learn a new sport – a team or individual one: skiing, running, hiking, golfing, etc. Attend spectator sports – hockey, football, soccer, baseball – whatever’s in season. Ladies these are great places to meet men. Volunteer at an animal shelter, hospital, or on a business committee. Go to art galleries, libraries, sign up for a class and go to seminars. Say yes to as many social and business invitations as possible. While it’s important to break out of your comfort zone, be sure to balance things out by doing things and going places that you like. This will ensure that you’re meeting like minded people.

Man up and ask her out

Everything starts with a simple “hello”. If you’re attracted to a woman while you’re out, whether you’re at a bar, the library, grocery store, coffee shop, walking outside, etc. take the lead and start a conversation. There’s need for cheesy pick-up lines, just act confidently and be yourself. Remember to stand up straight, take up space, avoid fidgeting and always establish eye contact.

The first impression that you make is so critical. With that in mind, read below for some tips for successfully taking that first step and approaching women.

Tips from a Matchmaker

Guys, when it comes to dating you should know that women notice and analyze everything. Remember that until she’s fallen for you completely, she’s looking for reasons to vote you off the island. Think about how critical you yourself can be when sizing up a potential partner and double that level of scrutiny! So, needless to say, you need to present yourself well and put your best foot forward. It’s a fact that every woman likes a man who is well groomed and properly put together.

What to do when it isn’t working for you

Don’t get me wrong, I think online dating services definitely have their place and I’m for anything proactive to get you out of your comfort zone. It’s a great way to meet like minded people and consumers have a vast selection of dating sites to choose from. No matter what your background and hobbies are, for a reasonable amount of money (or even for free) there are lots of options to choose from.