When you have the right mindset, dating can be a lot of fun. If you focus on the fun part, you might meet someone that is a good fit for you.
For example, instead of meeting your date for a fancy dinner, try doing something that both of you find enjoyable. That will make your date feel more relaxed and natural.
1. Focus on yourself
It’s easy to lose yourself in a relationship, especially during the head-over-heels honeymoon phase. But focusing on yourself while you’re dating can help you be more centered and grounded, which will ultimately benefit your relationship.
A central part of focusing on yourself is finding out what your needs and goals are in life. This can be done through a variety of activities, such as journaling or meditation. It can also include things like getting a massage or simply making time for friends and family.
It’s important to find a balance between caring for yourself and caring for your partner. That means setting aside time for yourself and letting your partner know that you need some alone time. In this way, you can both enjoy a happy and healthy relationship.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Everyone likes to talk about themselves, and it can be a great way to break the ice. Don’t go overboard with first grade questions, but asking your date about their interests can help you find common ground and learn more about them.
It’s also a good idea to ask about their goals and ambitions. This helps you understand if they’re looking for long-term commitment or are just looking to enjoy life and see where it leads.
Of course, you don’t want to project 20 years into the future on a first date, but it is important to know where they stand on things like their career path and how many kids they’re hoping for. Asking these kinds of questions can help you avoid big surprises down the road.
3. Don’t be afraid to laugh
Laughter can be an incredible way to connect with your date. It can also help take the pressure off and make the experience less serious. Laughter can even help lower blood pressure and improve moods.
It’s no secret that people who laugh together are closer. But a recent study from the University of Kansas has given data-backed validity to something we’ve all probably figured out on our own: couples who share a sense of humor are more likely to be happy and stay together.
Having a good sense of humor isn’t always easy, but it is important. Try incorporating a few lighthearted activities into your dating routine, like starting the date with a silly joke or watching funny movies on the weekend. Just remember to keep things clean and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself!
4. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable
Vulnerability is a buzzword thanks to Brene Brown’s popular TED Talk and books. It’s also a critical part of dating, but many people struggle with it. Learning to trust your gut instinct and be vulnerable takes time, especially if you’ve been hurt in the past.
Vulnerability doesn’t mean getting naked on the first date or blindly trusting your date, but rather being honest about how you feel and opening up to them about what matters most to you. It also means sharing your dreams and goals, which is a great way to create connection with someone. Many people mistake vulnerability for weakness, but in reality, it is a powerful strength. After all, who wants to spend time with a person who is closed off and guarded?
5. Don’t be afraid to let go
It’s important to be able to let go when you date. Even though it can be difficult, it is necessary for your emotional health. Holding on to toxic relationships can lead to anxiety and depression, which are unhealthy for your mental health.
When you’re ready to let go, focus on the positive aspects of your relationship and remember that they never defined who you are. They may have helped you grow in some way, but they weren’t the right person for you long-term.
To help you move on, try visualizing them far away from you – outside your circle, at the other end of town, or on the other side of the world. This will create an emotional distance that helps you let them go.