Wait two days before calling them back, don’t talk about past relationships, always pay on the first date…these are some tried and true dating tips that go back decades. But with so much changing so fast, a lot of the old rules just don’t apply anymore. While it’s still nice to pick someone up or take the time to make a reservation at a nice restaurant, it’s not really necessary anymore. So what is?
Here are 6 of the new dating tips for singles looking for love:
1. Let them know you’re interested.
Playing hard to get might be endearing to some, but with so many people out there and more opportunities for the person you’re into to move onto someone new it can backfire in a big way. But who has time for games these days? It can make you look difficult and really doesn’t serve any useful purpose. If you like the person let them know. If you don’t, make it clear. There’s no point stringing someone along, either.
2. Don’t be afraid to be honest.
Whether it’s online or in person, there’s no need to pretend to be someone you’re not. If they suggest going to a baseball game, and you’d rather do anything but…be honest and suggest something else. You’ll find out if there’s real chemistry by being who you are. You wouldn’t want to fall for someone who thinks you’re someone you’re not, would you?
3. Don’t expect exclusivity right away.
With online dating being one of the most popular forms of meeting local singles, it also means that a lot of people have a lot of choices—hundreds of matches, messages, text buddies, and even exes just a few clicks away. Some will eventually choose one person to commit to, while others may not commit until they’ve had their fill.
4. Plan the appropriate first date.
Your date doesn’t have to be an expensive dinner at a five-star restaurant anymore. And, in fact, it probably shouldn’t be. It’s a waste of money to plan an expensive first date with someone whom you may have zero compatibility with. Instead, plan something simple and inexpensive, like a few drinks and walking around at a public festival, to see if there’s chemistry.
5. If you want to make a move, make a move.
Women, if you see someone you’re interested in, go up to them, get their number, ask them out! That old rule that women shouldn’t approach a guy doesn’t apply anymore because roles have evolved so much that if you don’t approach someone because “the guy should always approach the woman” you could miss out on meeting a really nice guy.
6. Don’t worry about the spark.
Love at first sight is rare and the idea should only be left for Nicholas Sparks novels. While the spark is mostly related to a real strong physical attraction, there are many other traits of a relationship that people connect on. Don’t despair if you don’t feel that spark. You may still be on to something good.
These are the best dating tips for people searching their perfect matches, but the biggest dating rule is to throw the rules out the window. Along with the changes in technology and social dynamics, dating is evolving as well.