PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Finding yourself suddenly single is not always pleasant. One of the many suggestions you will get will be to “get back out there” and look for another fish in the sea. This can seem daunting and overwhelming, especially if you are newly single in a new town. How are you supposed to snag a new man if you can’t even figure out which grocery store to call your own? The key is to multi-task. Why separate the two when you can easily pool your energy into one fun mega task?

First make a list of all of the basic needs you have. This list should include things such as finding a pharmacy, getting a library card, or even figuring out where to buy the best produce. Once you have your list all it takes is a slight shift of focus to see each place not as an undertaking but as a good way to meet a partner.

Once you have found your pharmacy, it’s time to stretch your legs a bit. Just for those first few visits forgo cruising through the drive through in your faded sweat pants and flip-flops. Instead park your car and take a walk around inside. Possible dates can be found browsing the greeting card section (just make sure he is looking for a sweet card for Mom and not “My Honey”.) Other candidates can be found in a daze in front of the cough syrup. Suggest a brand that doesn’t taste like battery acid and you may get to call dibs on the guy once he is feeling better.

Obtaining your library card in a new town is always a great way to browse not only the newest best sellers, but also to see what literary Romeo’s are waiting for you in your new community. Steer clear of the self-help section in those first few visits and take a stroll among the gritty world of mystery novels. Your Prince Charming could be right around the corner.

Men are notorious for being bad produce shoppers. If this is something that you are an expert in, now is your chance to make the bold move in your new grocery store and help a guy out. Most men will love being rescued amid the melons and a quick glance into his shopping cart can usually hint at his relationship status.

In all of these new town places the best way to strike up a conversation is to state the obvious. A casual, “I’m new to town”, is a perfect way to get the message out that you are just off the boat and either looking for advice or possibly a new friendship. Be careful about spilling all the beans in that first encounter though. Detailed directions to your new apartment or house are not the smartest answer when a cutie asks where you’ve just moved. Instead be ready with general neighborhood indicators such as “near the park” or “a couple of minutes away from this store”. Asking questions about fun places to eat or socialize is a great way of alluding to your single status without looking desperate. If you play your cards right you could have a date by the weekend. If not at least you’ve got your library card and all the produce you need!