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?
