It's looking really good for me, and I finally have a chance to offer my affections to a sweet young woman. It's been two and a half years since my last relationship, and it looks like I've met someone I would take great pleasure in dating.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not eager to jump in a relationship just to say I'm with someone. I've done that before and it ended in disaster. After meeting this girl a few weeks ago, I come to find out she has a lot of great qualities, and once the stars align to my favor, I find out she's single. How can I not take a crack at it?

Unfortunately, I can't turn off my brain and tell myself things will be okay. I hate when there's a lingering doubt. Hypothetical questions always pop up when I tout my optimism around. What if she's going for another guy? What if there are a lot of others jockeying around her? I wouldn't be offended if she weren't interested in me, I'm more worried about whether or not I have competition. I don't like competing for women, it seems unfair to her. And frankly, it's a little, um... Cro-Magnon.

I do, however, have ideas on how to approach her, even though I don't see her often. Playing it safe and being cautious has proven to be the worst thing to do. I'm gonna plug away with the confidence I know I have. I'm gonna beat back the surge of negative thoughts in my head and mute the chattering doubt.

Shut the hell up, brain! It's time to leap before I look.