DO’S AND DON’TS DURING THE FIRST MONTH OF DATING SOMEONE NEW

The following is a list of do’s and don’ts of dating someone new. Everyone is different so think about what you might put on your own list.

DON’TS

·       Be flakey. Make decisions and stick with them. Do what you say you’ll do.

·       Tell them about your desire to get married and have babies.

·       Talk about your past relationships. Have the conversation at some point but not at the beginning of a relationship.

·       Go to a bar/club with their friends. You may not like what you see, especially if ample amounts of alcohol are involved.

·       Spend too much time together. Take your time getting to know them but don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Anticipation is a good thing.

·       Make an effort to introduce your date to your parents. Make the first month about developing your relationship.

·       Go on vacation together. You may plan it and pay for plane tickets, but it might fizzle out before you get there.

·       Move in with them. Hard to believe, I know, but people do it.

·       Make excuses for bad behavior.

DO’S

·       Be creative when planning dates. Step outside of the typical dinner and a movie and try something new.

·       Have fun. It’s new and stress should be minimal.

·       Remember the first couple of dates may be awkward as you feel each other out. Give them a chance (at least two dates).

·       Meet the friends. You can learn a lot about someone by meeting their friends.

·       Allow yourself to be a bit uncomfortable. They may surprise you or you may surprise yourself.

·       Remember that your dates don’t define you. A bad date does not equal a bad person.

·       Talk/ask about sexual history and testing.

·       Enjoy the “honeymoon” phase. Live in the moment.

·       Be honest with yourself. Trust your gut.

So what's on your list?