10 Better Places to Find a Date, Friend, or Positive Relationship Starting Today!

Though I’m not as old as Methuselah, I’ve met my fair share of dates: the good, the bad, and the downright ugly (and I’m not talking about looks, either). I’ve had my Hallmark moments—memorable dates which will happily remain forever in the cobwebbed corner of my mind. Sadly, I’ve had too many “what the heck was that?” disasters—nightmares from a B-grade horror film that seemed based on a Dean Koontz novel.

Such dating disasters, I believe, could have been avoided had I (A.) used my brain and (B) found someone at a more inviting place of interest instead of a redneck bar, Laundromat, or strip club. Below, I’ve included some places which I believe present a better quality of people than those previously mentioned sites.

· Book Stores. Go for the coffee; stay for the conversation. Bookstores are not just for overly intellectual, professorial types anymore. Women and men alike want someone they can effectively communicate with—not just Neanderthal grunts. Also, a well lit bookstore offers safety in numbers. Besides, if you get bored, you can enjoy your latte with a book or magazine that catches your interest.

· Networking. I am not talking about Facebook or Twitter, which are excellent online sites, but networking in the real world. More than likely, your town offers networking opportunities galore—in business (such as marketing or management), hobbies (such as pets or public speaking), or special interests (such as ethnic groups or politics). Strike up a conversation and see where it leads. For more information on local networking events, search the internet or browse your local newspaper.

· Special Events. Find someone special who shares your passion for music, running, the arts, wine tasting, finance, or other interests at local events. Like networking, the internet and newspapers (even radio and bulletin boards) are chock-full of such events. Participate and you never know what may happen.

· Speed Dating. Started by a rabbi to help Jewish singles meet, “Sex and The City” helped make this formalized matchmaking process a huge success with folks from all backgrounds. Though there is minimal cost to participate, the rewards far outweigh the price. After all, the willing participants are seeking the same thing you are—a positive relationship.

· Volunteer Work. Meet like-minded people in volunteer activities such as literacy, campaign, or charity work. Working together and making a difference often builds an awareness of others, as well. Seek out bulletin boards, the internet, and area news for more information.

· Places of Worship. Attending faith-based activities not only offers time to meditate, pray, and reflect—which are known to relieve stress, but may offer another benefit: meeting someone special. Realizing the need for singles to feel comfortable inside it’s doors, many in the faith-based community offer activities for this often ignored population. This is a nice, primarily safe place to meet someone sharing similar interests. Again, find out more about this growing trend in newspapers, bulletin boards, and online.

* Online Dating Sites. Today's lifestyles are extremely hectic. Thanks to the internet, you can learn about a potential date before meeting him or her. How? Through online dating sites. While not everyone online is honest, online dating sites take some of the guess work out your relationship search. Many people I know try online dating. Some even allow you to search for free. How about you?

Work. This is a no-brainer, as many of us spend eight or more hours a day here. But, be careful: Water-cooler gossips may target you as a subject and some bosses frown upon workplace dating. Besides, what happens if you break up with a coworker?

The Local Gym. No, I am not talking about places filled with steroid-abusing, muscled-up guys who simply love themselves, their pecs, and a mirror! Local gyms often cater to single men and women looking for love while working out on the treadmill, stair climber, or weight machines. While you're there, sign up for a coed aerobics class. Not only will you get healthier, but Mister or Miss Right may be working out right beside you!

Music Stores. Men and women share a love of music, so it is a great place to meet music-loving singles. Ask the good-looking guy or attractive women next to you for their thoughts on a cd, artist, or group. Soon, you may be making music of your very own!

All the best in your journey of finding someone special with whom to share memories. I wish you all the luck in the world.--Brian