It’s August, school is starting within the next month and the end of summer is here. Two words that start arriving on everyone’s social media feed is,"cuffing season" -- whether you like it or not here it comes. Every year, these two words mark the end of summer flings, the change of seasons, and the beginning of so called "serious relationships". When it starts to get cold outside, you'll be glad to be cuffed up with someone instead of being alone; "Netflix and chilling". There's no time like now to get ready. With this being said, DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOOT YOUR SHOT!

If you don't know what "shooting your shot" is, it is basically taking the initiative to go get what you want. In relation to sports, if you have the open goal, basket or net you’re not going to wait and see what happens, you’re going to shoot. Just like in life, you can’t wait and see, you have to take a shot at the opportunity. Otherwise, you miss out and someone else slides in your place. Nothing is worse than regretting not doing something.

A famous hockey player, Wayne Gretzky said it best "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." All this means is you won’t be able to succeed unless you try, you have to take action.Keep in mind, you don’t have to go and confess all of your feelings and aspirations, it’s as simple as starting a conversation. If you don’t know how to shoot your shot, here are some simple tips and steps.

1. Don’t be afraid of missing. Whether you shoot your shot by sliding in their DMs or in person don’t be afraid of rejection. Sometimes the first shot doesn’t go right so don’t take it personally. It’s a learning experience and the best players miss.

2. Do a little research, know what you’re getting into and identify the hoop. Is it better to shoot your shot in person or on social media? You don’t want to shoot your shot just to find out they already have a significant other. Just be aware of what you’re getting into.

3. Shoot your shot with a purpose. Think about what you want out of
this and go from there. Why waste your time shooting your shot, if it's
not something you truly want?

4. The Shot: choose the right greeting when shooting your shot. A simple “hey” or “hi beautiful” will get your shot blocked. The easiest way to do this is by responding to a recent post and starting a conversation from that. With your previous research, the "shot" should become easier. Don’t go for anything generic, there is probably a few others shooting their "shot" as well.

5. Keep everything about the personality and none physical. The quickest way to turn someone off is if you compliment them on their beauty straight off the jump. Instead, compliment them on their choice of something, it hits deeper.

6. Lastly, relax and just talk.