I'm an attractive young woman with a great job and lots of good friends who often encourage me to date more. The problem is that I suffer from extreme shyness when it comes to men. Recently I found out that a man I liked was interested in me, but he thought I didn't like him. Thinking that I was giving him the brush-off, he eventually asked out someone else, and I missed my chance with him. How can I increase my success in love and learn how to flirt?

Shrinking Violet

Dear Shrinking Violet,

Flirting is as easy as cracking a smile. I'm serious! A smile signals your availability and friendliness, making you easier to approach. If you can overcome your shyness long enough to look your intended target in the eye for a couple beats and flash your pearly whites, you're the mistress of the moment.

Lighten up a bit. Think of flirting as less, "I want to marry you and have your babies" and more, "You're definitely one of the cuter guys I've seen today; I dare you to come over here and talk to me!" What man could resist such a saucy challenge?