Problem: Article: When asking a girl out, especially if she is smart, you'll probably want to ask her when she is alone. This is because a smart girl probably won't enjoy being put on the spot. Asking her alone will give her a bit more space to think about how she wants to respond. It will also show that you are thoughtful, and want to be respectful. If you're having a hard time getting her alone, try casually asking her if you can talk to her alone for a minute. For example, if you have a class with her, try saying "Hey [insert girl's name], do you have a minute after class today? I wanted to talk to you about something." Keep it light when you bring this up or she might get worried about what you want to talk about. For example, when you ask her to talk later, you can add in, "Don't worry! It's nothing bad or a big deal at all, I just need to ask you about something." Keep your tone upbeat and happy. If you know there is something she is particularly interested in, try to make that into a date. You might get by going with a more traditional date idea (e.g. going to the movies), but a smart girl will be really impressed if you can come up with something out of the ordinary. For example, if she is really interested in art, see if there are any art shows or museum exhibitions in your area that you could take her to. If she is really into classical music, look to see if there is a symphony in your area. When you ask her out, try showing her that you really thought about it. For example, say, "I know you're a big fan of Van Gogh and I heard there is an exhibition at the museum this weekend. I'd love to take you if you'd like to go with me. Maybe we can grab some food afterward. What do you think?" Unfortunately, the hard truth is that you might get rejected. If you do, do your best to hide your disappointment. You will come off more confident and mature if you are able to say, "Oh, alright. Well, I understand. Have a nice a day!" than if you fly into a rage. If she says something like, "Oh, I have a boyfriend, I'm sorry" or "I'm not really interested in dating anyone right now," you might feel tempted to backpedal and act like you weren't actually asking her out. Don't do this. It will only make you look insecure. Of course, she might also say, "yes." This is great news, but you should still try to keep your cool. Don't start jumping up and down for joy. Instead, smile and say, "That's great! What time should I pick you up?" You don't want to give her the impression that you were convinced she would say no, even if you were. If you think you're not quite ready to go straight to asking her out, try suggesting doing something together that doesn't sound like going out on a date. This will give you a chance to spend time together, but will take some of the pressure off because it won't actually be a date. This will also give you a good chance to gauge her interest in you. When you are together, pay attention to the way she behaves. Is she behaving in a way that makes it seems as though she is interested? For example, is she making a lot of eye contact, laughing at everything you say, and casually touching your arm or your shoulder? If so, there is a good chance she is attracted to you. Asking to study for an important test together is a good way to hang out and do something productive without making it seem like it is a date.
Summary: Avoid asking her in front of other people. Suggest something you know she will find interesting. Be gracious. Ask her if she wants to study together.

Problem: Article: Your mindset or attitude is an important part of your mood. That is, you can't always change a situation you're in, but you can change how you react to it. You have to start by identifying what you're feeling currently. For instance, maybe you had a bad interview for a job. You can identify your feelings as sad or angry, depending on what you're feeling. Once you've established what mood you're already in, think about what mood would be better. To help you decide, focus on what kind of mood would help you move forward, rather than stay stuck where you are. For instance, if you did badly on an interview, you may decide that a better mood would be confidence that you will do better next time by learning from your mistakes. While you can't instantly change to a new mood, deciding what mood would be better can help push you in the right direction. When you're in a bad mood, you're likely only looking at what went wrong. However, if you can find the positive in the situation, you'll help change your mood. This step can be as simple as looking for the things in your life that you're grateful for or looking for what you can be grateful for, even in a situation that you think isn't great. For instance, if you've had a bad job interview, at least you have the qualifications and the resources to apply for those jobs. Basically, just tell yourself that you can and will do better. It's like a friend giving you a pep talk, but you're doing it for yourself. For instance, in the case of the interview, you could say, "That didn't go as well as you hoped, but you'll do so much better next time. Plus, at least you didn't bomb it completely. You showed up on time, and you were dressed in a professional manner. Plus, you rocked that question about your future goals!" Sunlight can naturally improve your mood, especially over time. If you work in a dark environment or stay in the house all day, try spending some time outside. If you can't get outside, try opening the windows to let the light in. If you live in an area that is darker in the winter, you might try getting a lamp meant to offer the same benefits as sunlight. Exercise is a natural mood-lifter. When you exercise, your body releases mood-lifting endorphins into your bloodstream. Even if you don't have time for an hour-long workout everyday, adding exercise to your routine can help, too. For instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator if you can or park farther out when you go to the store. Getting out and spending time with people you like can also boost your mood. If you don't have many friends, try joining a club that focuses on a hobby you love. Try connecting with people on the internet through social media, who you can then meet up with in real life. You can also meet people at social events such as open mic nights at your local coffee shop. If you're sitting alone in your house brooding, it may be time to get out. Go to the park. Enjoy a coffee at a coffee shop. Stop by the library or bookstore. Pick a place that makes you feel better, and spend an hour or two lifting your mood. Pick some music that always energizes you. Put it in a playlist, and blast it across your room or house. Spending some time listening to music that makes you happy can lift your mood. If you can't decide what to listen to, many social music sites have playlists made by users for certain moods. For instance, you could find a list meant to be energizing or make you happier. When you are in a bad mood, try engaging in something that interests you. Learning something new, which engages your creativity and interest, can help boost your mood. One place to explore ideas is your local libraries. Try checking out books on some topics you love.
Summary:
Identify your mindset. Decide what mood would be better. Look for the positive. Give yourself a pep talk. Get into the sunlight. Go for a walk. Enjoy time with other people. Get in a better environment. Play some happy music. Find out about things that interest you.