Dating isn't easy. Between meeting new people, dealing with rejection, hoping someone you like will ask you out and even just finding time to date in your hectic schedule, the whole process can seem like an impossible mission.

But finding someone you click with – or at least giving yourself more opportunities to date – can be easier than you think.

We turned to Maria Avgitidis, a dating coach and the founder of matchmaking website Agape Match, for her tips on how to inject some energy into your dating life.

1. Be more available
Some people expect Prince Charming to come right to their doorstep. Unfortunately, that's likely never going to happen. You have to put effort into meeting new people, which means making yourself available.

"Go to two networking events a week. You'll be surprised at who you can meet and what that will lead to," says Avgitidis.

By attending these sorts of events, making yourself available and approaching others, you'll be sure to build your confidence and make some new connections, she explains.

2. Dress for success
When you do head to a networking event or a social function where there will be other singles be sure to look approachable.

"Get rid of the power suit," Avgitidis advises. "Pair off a blouse with a smart pencil skirt and wear some funky jewelry to give people something to comment on." A blazer comes off as professional and therefore less playful, she explains.

3. Be more approachable
"People assume we are busy or not approachable when we're wearing headphones," explains Avgitidis.

The same goes for playing on your phone or reading a magazine when waiting for a friend to meet you at a bar or while waiting for an appointment. Be aware of what sort of impression you're giving off, and ask yourself if you'd approach someone who seems busy. Killing time is one of the best times to engage in conversation with others. Smile, make eye contact and put any distractions away.
4. Avoid pressure
Rejection will always be a part of dating, so when you do ask someone out avoid putting too much pressure on yourself by keeping things low key, advises Avgitidis. Say something like, "I'm going to be in your area next week, want to grab lunch?"

If someone is interested in you, they'll not only take the time, they'll make the time to see you, she says. By suggesting doing something in the other person's neighbourhood it comes off as casual and takes the pressure off of the get-together, explains Avgitidis.

"If the person really likes you they will get a glimpse of you on the lunch date and ask you out again," she says.

5. Expand your dating pool
When it comes to dating, Avgitidis sees many people get hung up on one specific person rather than branching out.

"Don't pine away for someone who is too busy for you. You're pining for the wrong person," she says. "If they are too busy to date, they shouldn't be dating."

By being open to dating various types of people you are much more likely to meet the person who is right for you, rather than trying to force something that isn't working.

6. Take initiative and ask him for a date
You might think someone should ask you out if they're interested in you – and you might even think it should be up to the man to make the first move. But times have changed. Avgitidis suggests approaching people rather than waiting around to be asked on a date.

It might seem scary, she explains, but the more often you do it the easier it will get to approach someone who you're interested in to see if they want to meet you for a coffee, a drink or a meal.

If you want to get out there and start dating, you need to start doing something about it. As great as it would be to meet "the one" without ever having to leave the house or change your day-to-day routine, that's just not realistic. Look online for networking events in your city that involve like-minded people, make yourself available and approachable, and be open to asking someone out.