5 Tips From a Dating Expert
Dating is a little like chess: most people don’t know what they’re doing when they start. With a little strategy, practice and self-awareness, it can get better. If you’d like dating to be a more positive and fulfilling experience, consider putting these tips into practice.
Stay Open
If you’re looking for love but your life follows the same routine day after day, it might be time to change things up. Be open to trying new experiences, meeting new people, and going to new places. It can be as simple as finding a new spot for happy hour or taking a cooking class. Get outside your comfort zone and new people are bound to cross your path.
Look Your Best
First impressions are key, whether in person or online. Think about hiring a professional photographer for your dating profile. And of course, dress your best for a first date. Though style isn’t more important than substance, physical attraction is an essential part of dating.
Know What You Want
How can you find your soulmate if you don’t know what you’re looking for? Make a list of all the qualities you want in a person and then review your list with a critical eye. Is it vital that they share your excitement for pickleball or is it enough that they cheer you on? How many of the traits are about attraction or status versus compatibility? Choose the top 3 or 4 qualities that are non-negotiable and think of the rest as a wish list.
Ask Interesting Questions
One of the goals of dating is to gather information that helps you really get to know someone. Stay away from mundane things like “how are you?” Remember, you’re trying to stand out. While topics like favorite brunch spot, sports team, or music genre are often part of the conversation, thoughtful questions help you go deeper. To create a connection with someone you’re interested in, try asking questions like:
What do you like most about your job?
Are you more like your mom or your dad?
What was missing from your last relationship?
Then listen to the answers! If your passion is politics and your date doesn’t know a donkey from an elephant, you might not be a great match.
Communicate Your Needs
Share what you’re looking for in a relationship. Ready for something serious? Fresh out of a relationship and looking for something casual? Want more kids? Never want kids? When you are honest about what you want in a relationship, you’ll spend less time wondering if a person is right for you.
If you’re interested in creating a better strategy for finding a satisfying relationship, date coach Emily Dodge can help! From advice on dating profiles to individual coaching sessions, Emily takes a kind, honest approach to working with clients looking for love. Contact us today to get started.