I consider myself sort of an expert on blind dates. Over the years, and since I was old enough to date, caring friends and concerned family members have been trying to convince me that they had found "the perfect match for me"... Unfortunately that has not turned out to be true -- yet! But keep hoping and stay sharp, because blind dates CAN work!

When a blind date has been arranged, the question is: how do you prepare yourself, mentally and physically, for such an event?

To start, make sure -- and repeat this to yourself a couple of times -- do not set your standards either too high, or too low. If at all possible, try coming to the date without any preconceived notions about the other person. It's hard, but work towards that.

I strongly suggest talking on the phone first, establishing a certain level of comfort, to find out what you may have in common. This will certainly come in handy when the first uncomfortable silence kicks in!

And even if the first phone call makes you want to crawl under a rock and die, or join a nunnery, don't! Do not base your entire opinion of someone on a disembodied voice at the end of a phone line. Some people are uncomfortable on the phone, but may be absolutely charming in person. Don't miss out on meeting the love of your life because of an awkward phone call!

If at all feasible, make a couple of calls to common acquaintances asking for information... Do a little snooping -- not too much -- and find out what there is to find out. If it is not possible, don't worry about it. You never know where love may be hiding!

After all the psychological preparations, checking and snooping, prepare yourself as you would any other date. Shave, shower, style your hair, and pick an appropriate attire to showcase the fabulous you -- that goes for women AND men!

Knowing you look good will make you feel good, boosting your confidence. This will in turn add to your natural charm, radiance and attractiveness. Just be yourself -- nobody likes a fake.