One of the hardest things to do is to present yourself in a positive light. It’s easy to make the mistake of trying way too hard - and turning ourselves into fabulous, flawless and divine indivuduals. Or even worse - we don’t value ourselves enough or lack a bit of confidence in presenting our selves in the best way. I other words we sell ourselves short.

Unfortunately we all lead busy lives and we often get just a precious few minutes to catch our beloved’s attention.

Preparation is essential.

Note the points below - where you do a great job, but also where you don’t do so great. And put pen to paper to create a fitting description to yourself and audience.

1. Get A Great Head and Shoulders Shot - and Don’t Forget to Smile

Some of the photos on the online personal sites - could make me run for the hills.

Do not - and I repeat do not - take your picture on waking up first thing in the morning, when you’re in a bad mood, having a horrifically bad hair day, or after a late night boozer.

I recommend a bright and colorful photograph - ideally focusing on the head and shoulders, with natural lighting or at least a well lit shot. Make yourself stand out with a fabulous smile and some colorful clothes or background.

2. Avoid Common ‘Over Used’ Words

Do these phrases sound familiar : “great personality” “likes movies” “enjoys eating out” “caring”

Yawn - Yawn

The details are what will bring your profile to life.

By giving your reader details about yourself, you allow them to create an image of you in their minds and emotions - therefore making you more memorable and interesting.

3. Tell Me What You Want

Be clear what you want in a person and state it. Don’t assume that people will work it out because they won’t. The more clear you are with regard to your beloved the better and more targeted your responses will be.

If you are religious and that is important to you - then state it. If you are looking simply to date or if you want something more serious and substantial - state it.

If you are too ‘blah’ or general in your profile you may end up with far too many replies, and may even overlook Mr or Miss Right.

4. Be True to Form

Don’t hype up your details or you risk doing an injustice to yourself and disappointing the other party.

Often hype is most ‘in your face’ when it comes to describing appearance. If you haven’t added your photo (and I can’t think why not) then describing yourself as a very attractive buff builder is sure to disappoint a few fair damsels - firstly because you have not added a photo (hmmm) and secondly attraction is a personal thing.

You and your mum may think you’re the ‘best thing since sliced bread’ - but a reality check may be just what the doctor ordered.

Keep it real.

5. The Groundwork is Essential

I’m sure you’ll agree - when forging new relationships, some essential fundamentals are required. Don’t forget to mention your age, status - single, divorced, education level, and job.

I don’t really have to say it - but I will anyway. For your safety, do not reveal anything specifc about yourself.

6. Flavour Your Life

Don’t you just love a person on a mission ? Any mission. With fire, passion and conviction in the mind and hearts.

We sense a comman bond with them. We can relate to some or all their interests and ideals. They motivate us to think and grow.

Discover the ‘Theme of Your Life’. Write a great profile that reflects that in all it’s many variations.

Make a list of all the things that make you happy, the things or people that inspire you, your unique passions and interests, your God-given talents, and the things that people compliment you on (and no - I don’t just mean your mother).

E.G. Soulful and Sensitive Writer in Seattle, Traveller and ‘Mean Piano Player’

7. Knock Yourself Out

Keep it simple, and you can’t go wrong.

Have fun and keep in light. Be smart and be aware, but don’t forget to let go and find the lessons in your experience. Learn and grow.