As women, we know damn well that we can't just traipse to the store the day before a big social event and find the perfect jeans (you know the ones...they're sexy, snug and as comfy as the ones you've had since high school).

We know that, should be actually try this, we'll try on half a dozen pairs in search for just the right one, hate them all, and end up wearing our old, broken-in pair to that big social event. But then, three weeks later, when you're not even looking, you find the pair you've always wanted, the ones you know will be your new favorites.

Why do we same savvy shoppers not apply that same maxim - the harder you look, the less you see - to dating? They're not all that different, really. As soon as we decide to really start hunting for someone 'perfect,' the more elusive she becomes.

Are you frantic to find the girl who'll fit you like a glove? Well, remember that desperation is not particularly sexy. So if you can't actually be happy being single, at least pretend. In the meantime, try some of our easy-as-cherry-pie strategies that can make finding a good woman fun, not frustrating.

Get Friendly

Like-minded friends are your best allies in the dating trenches. In addition to widening your social circles - they can set you up with friends of friends, or at least introduce you to some cute someone you've seen around - they can also clue you in to how you're coming across to potential partners and give you advice on what works and what doesn't.

Do more than just peruse those matchmaking websites during your lunch hour at work. Put up your own ad, taking care to see that it reflects your personality and what you're looking for. Ditto for responding to ads. Being a little more selective - and suggestive - in your online endeavors will make help alleviate the frustrating feeling that you're looking for an Indigo Girls album in a rack of John Denver's classics.

By going to every party or club looking for the Perfect Woman, you're guaranteed to look some great girls who could become perfect pals. Don't give up just because you don't find the beautiful, brainy babe who makes your head spin right away. By having fun - spending time with people you enjoy doing things you love - you'll find a love that will last longer than your favorite Levis.