h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Yeah. That's why it's so annoying. Very seldom have I been able to overcome that tendency of mine and have a good conversation with a woman I'm attracted to.

That is also my problem, I won't be able to act naturally around a girl that I have any sort of interest in. Then I just turning into the shy, babbling moron. I think that was what went wrong with the Swedish girl. We just sat and talked, and she seemed to enjoy my company and such. And then when I got an idea I might actually have a chance, everything just went downhill. Suddenly there was a lot at risk, and I got very conscious about everything I said or did. And lost any chance I had.

A bit of an update:

I'm gradually trying to get rid of that shyness. I figure it results from desire, and if I can let go of the desire, then I can talk and socialize more easily. Seeing the movie "The Tao of Steve" helps, too.

Ummm, I had this to a tee at age 16-17. Then I got into a relationship and distanced myself from women. When that relationship ended I found myself with no flirting skills. Luckily its starting to come back...

Did you find yourself with no flirting skills 'cause you were out of practice, or because of the emotional change that results from the end of relationship?

Out of practice and the fact that until then Id always had lots of female friends who I was close too and comfortable with. Then as I said I distanced myself from women for 2 1/2 yrs. Leaving me with no practice and a lack of confidence...

Right, gonna rent Tao of Steve. Any other good suggestions?

Come on guys. Some of you are married, you must have suggestions.

At the moment I seem to be happily sorted,. However there are people out htere who just don't recoginse flirting. So no matter what the poor guy might be doing, I know I see initial approaches as friendly and nothing more and that's as far as things go.

Give us some more flirting tips.

Laugh at your intended's jokes. Even if they're not funny.