How do I get the first date?

[Achilles]

My first post here, which has been caused by much distress.

I can't seem to get a 'first date' or ask a woman out in any way!

Now, I have no trouble at all starting conversations/talking to women that I just happen to bump into. The problem is that I have trouble asking them if they'd like to meet up again and I find it all but impossible if there's other people/bystanders around. I don't ever meet people more than once, and I always feel desperate for asking a woman if they'd like to go out after only meeting them for a brief period.

I generally don't go out to many social events (like going to the pub, for example) because nearly all my friends live very far away from me. I also go to the gym regularly and have quite a strick diet and I get a bit uncomfortable missing meals (latest meal is at 7 and I can often buy or take some of it with me).

But all that's besides the point. How can I meet someone new and get them out on a date? I've thought about writing my phone number down on a peice of paper and just hading it to them, as this might relieve the awkwardness of being turned down, but I have fears it might make me look a bit sleazy, as if I do it a lot or something.

Any advice?

P.S Sorry if this is in the wrong forum.

[TheGreek]

Don't give a girl your number because she may or may not call. Next time you see a girl you are interested and strike up a conversation and you have to go or she does, but you want to ask her out say: What can we do to continue this conversation? And hopefully she'll offer her phone number. And guess what, it was her idea not yours so she won't feel as pressured.

[Indignant]

make a business card, and give them out.

[tutlebeach]

Get drunk and go to a party. Ask away.

[Desinate]

When you are leaving, say something like, "I have to go and I'd like to talk another time.. So could I get your number?"
Always works for me..
Then ask her to go out later? Makes it alot easier.

[Pectabyte]

Its easier than you think. Be cocky and funny and remain in control of yourself when you think she doesn't like you. Establish you are a man and she will ask YOU out.

[Desinate]

Its easier than you think. Be cocky and funny and remain in control of yourself when you think she doesn't like you. Establish you are a man and she will ask YOU out.

I think he is talking about random girls...
So this would really depend on the girl, most of the ones I've met are too shy to ask me for my number or MSN..
Haha. :/