Contributed by: kellyseal on Saturday, April 09 2011 @ 08:50 am
Last modified on
Before the age of Google and Twitter, dating might have seemed less complicated. However, now there are more opportunities than ever before, and the dating process moves fast. Following are some new rules I put together to help maximize those opportunities as well as keep your expectations in check.
No more waiting. Instead of sitting around the obligatory three days before calling someone who interests you, pick up your mobile and text her. Ask her out, or thank him for the last date and ask when you'll see each other again. If you wait too long, you might miss your opportunity to connect.
Text, please. While phone calls and emails are great, if you really want to stay connected with your dates you have to start texting. I don't mean texting her every five minutes. I mean sending a thoughtful text to show your interest. This goes a long way in maintaining a connection established on a date.
Go online. If you haven't tried online dating, now you must. Most single men and women have tried it at least once. This is a great way for people to meet, better than relying on networks of friends and family. Opportunities abound. There's no point in dismissing it or thinking it never works. It does for hundreds of couples every year.
Age is a mindset. Now that people are single well into their thirties or forties, and it's time to rethink your dating age restrictions. If someone takes care of himself or herself, is happy, healthy, and attractive, don't dismiss them just because they may be a few years older than what you pictured.
Be careful of what you say online. Facebook and Google make it easier than ever to track people down and learn their histories. If you post nasty comments about an ex, or drunk pictures of you at your friend's party, is that what you want potential dates to see? Think before you post to avoid digital mishaps.
Manners matter. It seems that returning phone calls promptly, picking up the tab, and other chivalrous gestures go a long way in making a good impression. The little considerations really matter to the person you're trying to win over, so don't think that acting cool and distant will help. It's thoughtfulness that really sets you apart.