There are loads of excuses for avoiding going out and meeting people, but it's easy to turn the anxiety about a first encounter into an enjoyable and fun way of making new friends - and maybe even getting a date.
"I never meet anyone new. There aren't any single people out there." These are just some of the excuses people give for being single, but there really are no excuses for not getting out there. There are people everywhere and many of them are single and also looking for a partner.
You can try clubs, pubs, wine bars and parties, but there's an abundance of other less obvious places that are hot spots for initial encounters. You can meet your potential partner anywhere; in the office lift, on the train, or even at the supermarket, so you should always be on the look out. Here are a few suggestions to get you going.

Join an evening class
Taking an evening class can help you make many new friends. The after-class drink always provides opportunities for getting to know your classmates better. Think about going to classes where you are likely to meet people of the opposite sex - not many men do needlework! Remember - at least you're learning new skills if nothing else!

Join a dance class
Dance classes, such as Salsa and Ceroc, are a fantastic place to meet people - there's no pressure, everyone is having fun and women as well as men are happy to ask people to dance.

Go late night shopping
Supermarkets are another good venue to meet people and with practice you'll soon be able to spot the singles shopping for one.

Visit an art gallery
The beauty of art galleries is that they're places where it's socially acceptable to go on your own. There are also plenty of people around and the exhibits provide a good conversational opening.

Go to the theatre
Theatres might not seem the most obvious place to find a potential partner, but you'd be surprised how many people go on their own. The interval provides a good opportunity to spot the single person and throw in a passing comment about the play.