How much possible is it for the average guy to take control of his dating life?

Is it possible to meet people on a steady basis? I personally am not a fan of Online Dating as it was more of shit-show and time wasting for me. I have been there for a while and it was like women were too "spoiled" there for a serious relationship to work out.

In real world situation, though you would know people through your job and hobbies they are the same set of people you see everyday and that set would not be that big.

I wish women would be more receptive of being approached (I am not even talking about getting hit on, just normal conversation for both parties to gauge each other) in public spaces like libraries, coffee shops, etc but it is far from reality sadly.

What do you do to take control of your dating life?