Contributed by: DatingBlogger on Wednesday, August 04 2010 @ 12:35 pm
Last modified on
Self-reflection is absolutely necessary for successful dating. In order to know what type of person you want, you should have a firm idea of who you are and what you're looking for in others. There is a basic foundation of respect that people generally believe they deserve from each other. Everyone wants honesty, respect, and care. Nevertheless, the reason why many people experience conflict over these issues is because people define these terms in different ways. While some people understand respect as opening doors and pulling out chairs for a lady, others might actually find this behavior offensive.
You
Not sure where to start? Draft a list of things that are important to you. What is important in your life? What are some central aspects of your personality and lifestyle? How do you understand honesty, respect, and care? It may help if you develop two checklists: in the first, determine what qualities are absolute deal-breakers; in the second, determine what qualities are important to you, but you could live without. If you understand yourself, you will be better able to present exactly what you want to project to potential partners.
Your Partner
What basic attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and interests do you expect from your partner? Is their political allegiance an issue? Religious affiliation? Past experience? How do you want to be treated in a relationship? Do you have any deal-breakers, and if so, what are they? Although it is unlikely and unrealistic to expect that you will ever find someone that encompasses every item you wish for, it is entirely within your grasp to find someone who comes close!
Life is Short
Your time is precious. Knowing what you're looking for in a partner saves you time, energy, and potential heart ache from failed dates and relationships. Knowing what you want is the first step to figuring out how to get it. The second step is, of course, articulating those needs and learning how to find the kind of people you're looking for.
Frankness and honesty play a great role in online dating. Before you even meet, you can deliver your desires and expectations free of guilt and look for like-minded people without the hassle of going through several dates just to later learn of some tragic, deal-breaking flaw. By settling the score up front and asking directly for what you want, you come closer to finding it!