Why SHOULD you get what you want?

A couple of days ago, I made a suggestion to folks who felt like they couldn't get decent pictures of themselves taken.

My suggestion was simple - find people who are busy taking pictures with their friends. Ask them if they'd like a group photo. They usually want one. Then ask if they'll take your picture in return.

Pretty simple, really. But it's something that's easily forgotten in Internet culture. After all, when you're nameless and faceless, it's easy to write a quick anonymous request. Whether it's asking a woman for guided communication, or a fellow Google Group member for help on a profile.

But, faceless and nameless requests, on the internet, and in real life are usually ignored.

So, if you've made a request, ask yourself one question - "Why should the other person answer?"

If you haven't made it clear why you'd be an interesting guy to talk to... most people won't respond to communication requests.

And if you're asking for help in our Google Group, but you haven't even tried to help any of your fellow members with their questions... most people aren't going to make an effort to help you either.

Relationships aren't just about receiving. You have to give, as well.

(And I'll give you folks a hint - a big reason that I'm doing better on eHarmony today is because I learned so much in the process of helping others.)