Flirting. Merriam-Webster gives us three definitions:

- to move erratically : flit
- to behave amorously without serious intent or to show superficial or casual interest
- to come close to reaching or experiencing something

We’re not going to move erratically or come close to experience something (that’s not what we’re aiming for). We’re working with “to behave amorously without serious intent.” Now, we might want to strike off “without serious intent.” You may or may not have serious intent when you flirt, but you certainly do behave in a certain way.

If you wish to flirt with someone, be ready to engage in a conversation or, at least, an exchange of gestures loaded with double meanings and suggestions. The object is to be playful and say or do things that are acceptable and make it known that you may mean something else.

When you see a girl you like, and you want to be with that girl, the first objective on your mind should be to flatter her. Do not praise her senseless. That rarely works. You may flatter her by your actions or your words. Make her feel that she looks great by the way you look at her and by the way you talk to her. Well-placed flattery can go a long way. Make sure to flatter her properly. Emphasize what is true. Do not sing songs about her long flowing hair if she just had her hair cut short. Flatter her, but be sure it’s the truth. Women usually know what looks good in them.

Don’t be lascivious. Not a lot of women like to be objectified. Give her the look that says “I know how to flirt with girls, and I’m doing it now.” Be flexible. Know what’s working and what’s not working. Be prepared to change strategies in the middle of the match.