DEAR ABBY: I am a woman who would like to be more confident and less fearful about asking a guy out. Deep down I believe that the guy should be the one to do the asking. I also have a fear of rejection.
There are several guys I'm interested in, but I can't muster the courage to ask them out. What should I do? -- WENDY
DEAR WENDY: Although your feelings are understandable, it is common and acceptable these days for a woman to ask a man out. In order to avoid rejection, drop some "hints" to see if there is any interest before popping the question. And remember: Practice makes perfect. After doing it a few times, you'll find it easier to approach men.
P.S. Between you and me, men also suffer fear of rejection at the prospect of asking a woman out. Now you can empathize.