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DATING DISTRESS

All I want is to meet a nice woman and settle down but I’m having no luck

READ Dear Deidre Editor Sally Land's personal replies to today's problems.
a man and a woman are sitting on a bench and the woman is wearing glasses

DEAR DEIDRE: ALL I want is to meet a nice woman and settle down. 

But despite trying everything from dating apps to walking groups, I’ve had no luck.

I’m a sane, decent man of 42, who still has all my own hair. I’m a little shy, but I do make an effort.

I have a good job, eat healthily, try to stay fit and have hobbies and interests. 

Friends say a woman should have snapped me up by now.

Until eight years ago, I was in a relationship, but since then there’s been nobody serious, just a few flings and dates. 

The women I like don’t like me back. The ones who are interested in me have no conversation. 

I don’t think I’m overly-fussy. I don’t have a type - I just want someone who is interesting to talk to and who is kind and fun. 

What else can I do to meet someone? I’m running out of ideas, and I don’t want to be single forever.

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DEIDRE SAYS: The dating scene is increasingly difficult, especially for those who don’t find swiping right the best way to meet a mate. 

Give up on those and concentrate on making friends with women through your interests. Friendship is the best start to a lasting relationship. 

Even if those friendships don’t automatically lead to romance, a female friend may have a single friend that’s right for you.

Ask your existing friends if they can introduce you to someone too.

My support pack, Finding The Love Of Your Life, should help.

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