5 New Years Dating Resolutions to Make

The new year is around the corner, and you know what that means - more resolutions! Are you wanting to change things in your life, to have more fun on dates, to meet someone special? This is the time of year to reflect on what's most important to you and what you'd like to improve.

We make resolutions every year to do things differently, but then once we start the task seems overwhelming and difficult. But it doesn't have to be if you take small steps. Changing your dating life doesn't mean denying yourself fun - it means injecting a little more fun into it. Taking yourself out of the normal routine, meeting new people. There's nothing too hard about that!

Following are some resolutions you can make that will make a huge difference in your dating experience:

Engage in conversation. Instead of sizing your date up over a twenty-minute coffee meeting, try approaching the next date with an open mind. Ask questions, get to know the person sitting across from you. Even if he's not right for you, he likely has something interesting to share. We all have different experiences, and it connects us to be able to share them. Engage in more conversations, instead of quickly writing your dates off.

Mix up your routine. There's nothing that says "boring date" like the twentieth time you're meeting someone for coffee at the shop around the corner. So, pick a new place! Instead of traditional dates like drinks or dinner, try doing something active instead. Take your dogs for a walk in the park. Go on a bike ride. Or since it's winter, try ice skating or indoor rock climbing. You'll find it's easier to connect and converse with someone when you are active. It also makes your time together more fun.

Give every date a second chance. Don't just go on a series of first dates. If you aren't sure about someone, or there wasn't the great chemistry but you had a nice time, go on at least one more date. Most people are nervous for first meetings and you don't really get a sense of who they are. Instead of being quick to judge, try taking a step back and moving more slowly. It pays off.

Project what you want to attract. If you are looking for love, you won't get it by having a negative attitude about dating or blaming others for not being what you want. Try taking a more positive approach. Most people are looking for love just like you. If you allow yourself to enter a date with a fresh perspective, to be willing to give love, then you'll find a whole different dating experience.

Dump those lists. I know we all have standards, but sometimes they just don't serve us. Instead of getting hung up on someone meeting all of those qualifications you require (lots of hair, nice smile, taller than me), try thinking about how you want to feel in a relationship (listened to, supported, encouraged). It makes a big difference.