Want More Dream Dates than Dating Disasters?

Want More Dream Dates than Dating Disasters?

Top Ten Dos and Don’ts for Finding the Right Match

(ARA) – Dating can be tough, and first dates, both good and bad, are an inevitable part of finding Mr. or Ms. Right. The quest for true love is seldom easy. But, armed with helpful online resources, some important guidelines and a positive attitude, dating can be an adventure in meeting new friends and exploring life’s possibilities.

This Valentine’s Day, to help today’s singles better navigate the world of dating, Love.com has developed the following dos and don’ts to help ensure more dream dates than dating disasters in the new year.

Top Ten Dating Dos and Don’ts

Do seek out weekend dates from friends, co-workers and online dating services. The more you reach out to let people know you are available, the more dates are likely to come your way.

Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Just because your date turns out to be a vegetarian doesn’t mean you need to order the tofu burger and fries. Neither should you sign up for the next marathon when your date mentions he’s an avid jogger, particularly if you haven’t put on your running shoes in years. Just be yourself.

Do get to know dates via e-mail and instant messaging (IM). Chat online to find out about interests and hobbies until you feel comfortable setting up a phone call or in-person meeting. When you do finally meet your date, you may feel as though you’ve known him or her for years!

Don’t talk about past relationships or exes on the first few dates. No first date wants to hear how funny, attractive or smart your ex was. Instead, spend this time learning more about the other person to find out if it's worth ordering dessert to spend more time together.

Do be true to yourself and to your date by being up-front about your appearance and availability, as well as whether you are divorced, widowed or have children. If you need to arrange for a babysitter, let your date know from the get-go.

Don’t play games, unless you’re up for a round of Scrabble. Both you and your date are looking for someone special, and it’s not fair to waste time on mind games.

Do be honest about what you are looking for from the other person. Whether you want to hear wedding bells or just the dinner specials, key your date in. If you’re not looking for the same thing, it’s a waste of time for you both.

Don’t look for other possible love matches when you’re on a date. It’s not fair for you to be checking out the bartender while your date is telling you his life story. Give each date a chance.
Do be on the lookout for red flags. Break off any relationships at the first sign of anything that feels uncomfortable to you.

Don’t make snap judgments about your date. Unless he’s a complete snooze or a closet psycho, give him a fair shot before writing him off. You may come to regret the hasty rejection of a potential love of a lifetime.

Questions on the text

Answer the questions according to the text.

1. Is it okay to have dates with different people when you're single?

___Yes, it is. After all you are free and can choose the one you like best.

___No, it isn't. You should have several dates with one person first. And only if you find out that he/she is not right, you can date another.

2. Should you pretend to enjoy the same things as your date, although you don't?

___Why not. At the beginning it is always better if the other person thinks that you have lots of things in common.

___You should be honest about this right from the start.

3. At the first date, is it advisable to tell your date what you liked about your ex?

__Yes, it is. This way your date knows what exactly you want in a new relationship.

__ No, it isn't. You shouldn't talk about your ex at the first date.

4. If it’s not love at first sight, you should ... still give the other a chance. He/She might

__still turn out to be the love of your life.

__search the scene for a better match during the date. After all the love of your life could be right there at that very moment.