Dating Tip: Daters You Should Avoid

While I'm a huge advocate of keeping an open mind and giving everyone you date a real chance, there are some people you shouldn't waste anymore time and energy on. You know who I'm talking about. The guy who keeps you waiting for his call or the girl who makes you feel like it's a privilege to date her.

Rather than thinking you can change someone else, or that eventually things will change, maybe it's time to cut yourself some slack and break things off once and for all. If you find yourself meeting the following people more and more often, it's definitely time to break those bad habits and move on to a healthy relationship:

Can't make up his mind. One day he seems totally into you, but then he doesn't call or text and you find yourself on an emotional roller-coaster until you hear from him. You change plans to accommodate his schedule. If you find yourself going out of your way to see someone who isn't returning the favor, chances are he's blowing hot and cold and isn't interested in a relationship with you. Do yourself a favor and move on.

Only wants to "hang out." This girl likes to keep things casual. You may see her a few times a week, but not on weekends. She may make romantic gestures but be uncomfortable having an intimate conversation. Or maybe she invites her friends along whenever you're together. If it seems too casual for you, it probably is. She is either afraid to commit to a real relationship or she's not mature enough to handle one. Move on.

Self-absorbed. I think this is pretty self-explanatory. If someone is agreeable only to the extent that it suits him, then you're likely on a road to nowhere. If you're agreeing to only see movies he wants to see, or eat at the places he likes (with no consideration for you) - or if he talks about his own success or problems but rarely asks about yours - it might be time to walk away.

The black cloud. Are you dating someone who makes you want to watch a comedy show immediately after you see him? Or at least call a friend to help cheer you up? If you find yourself sapped of energy in your date's presence, it's not your responsibility to make him or her happy. This person is an energy sucker, and you don't have the time. Move on.

High maintenance. Does she seem to need more attention than what you're able to provide? Does she want expensive gifts or to be wined and dined? If she seems less interested in your genuine gestures of romance and more interested in what you can provide her, beware. She might never be satisfied, and that is not a good start to any relationship.

I don't advocate making snap judgments of your dates based on stereotypes. But if you're spending more time unhappy and confused in your relationship than anything else, there's something wrong. It's time to take a real look at what you want and what you're willing to put up with. It's time to make room for a healthy relationship.