The Four C's

A couple of years ago, I had be-friended a co-worker who lacked self-confidence when it came to dating. She had been with a female partner for a few years and had recently decided that she was ready to date. To date boys. Boys are a whole different ballgame than girls in my opinion. She looked to me for wisdom. And while internet dating sure can teach a girl a thing or two, I in no way considered myself an "expert."

Before undertaking her tutelage, I gave dating some serious thought. What does it take to enter into the dating game? And how, with all the intricacies and nuances, can one succeed? How can a relatively shy, inexperienced girl wow and woo the boy of her dreams?

I came up with The Four C's: Clarity. Confidence. Color. Cleavage. No girl should ever leave home without them.

Clarity: You must first be clear with yourself about your intent. Are you looking to shag or to find a meaningfully deep emotional connection? Do you have certain absolutes that would rule a potential suitor out of the game? Think these things through now, not after you are weeks into a relationship. Clarity counts for a lot in the pursuit of love.

Confidence: The motto being- "Fake it 'til you make it." If you don't have confidence, act as though you do. It will keep you on the right path. Begin by being positive. Believe you are worthy. Exude it. None of this coy crap. Love who you are and share it with your suitor. Confidence is sexy. Find the balance between bragging and sharing your strengths.

Color: Too many girls fall victim to the "black is slimming" mentality. Maybe that illusion works on some but do you really want to blend into the night? Do you really want to look like the last three girls he dated? No! Wear some color damn it. Red. Purple. Turquoise. Don't be afraid to be seen. Express your unique self.

Cleavage: If you've got it, flaunt it. Just don't let it all hang out so there is nothing left for the boy's imagination. If you are less endowed, no worries. Two words: Wonder. Bra. If you don't feel comfortable with baring your rack, work another asset. Like your legs? Great! Wear a skirt. Love your arms? Great! Sleeveless tops are your new best friend. Whatever you do, embrace the body you are in and play up your winning attributes. No man likes to hear a girl go on and on about how fat and/or ugly she is. Remember confidence? Work it.

My coworker. . . guess what became of her? The boy she was so excited about has been her boyfriend for two years. Yes, indeed, the Four C's work like magic.