Life isn't fair. There are just as many shy women as there are shy men. Yet, guys are the ones that are expected to put their balls on the line and risk rejection. The worst part is, balls don't grow on trees -- there are no surefire ways to combat shyness. And sadly, timid guys are a turn-off for most women. So, what to do? Surely shy guys deserve to score her too.

Luckily, there are a few ways to work around -- or through -- the problem. First, if you don't want to get rejected, don't ask for it. You can get turned down if you ask a yes or no question. Like, 'Can I get your phone number?' Instead, gauge her interest with open-ended questions. Say something like, 'Maybe we could grab a drink sometime.' The more nonchalant and noncommittal you are the better. Based on her response, you'll be able to get a better idea of whether she wants to set a definite date or will probably pass if put into a corner.

Another way to tackle shyness is through practice. The key is not to practice on girls you're actually interested in. Hit on girls that you know will reject you. Supermodels. Lesbians. Married Women. Make it a game. How many rejects can you get in an hour at a bar. After a while, in theory, rejection will become less daunting and maybe even mildly amusing.

OK, maybe that won't work for every guy. So, start slow and use the 'just friends' approach. I firmly believe that every single, straight woman considers something more with her guy friend at some point or another. Post an ad in the platonic section of 'craigslist', poke around 'friendster' or 'myspace' and see what you can dig up for a date. . .I mean just coffee.

Finally, remember that no matter how hot she is, women are never perfect. Maybe she has a third nipple. Perhaps she's got chronic athlete's foot. No woman is that great. Go for the gold guys, or at least the fake gold.