The dating world is a mess. With everyone basically meeting online nowadays, it seems pretty difficult to meet someone who is actually who they say they are. Not to mention, being faithful to one person seems to be an obstacle for many people. (Like if you want to sleep with someone else, end your current relationship!) Dating use to be something very special. In the beginning of the week, a guy asks a girl out on a date without texting her, and the two of them go out during the weekend enjoying a nice meal and maybe a movie. Now, dates have turned into hangouts, and dinner and a movie has been replaced with “Netflix and Chill.” So, to those of you who have entered the dating world, here are a few suggestions to actually date someone.
1. The Chase
Okay this one is pretty simple. Guys: chivalry is not dead, so show girls that you care. Show us that you are willing to put in a little effort and that we are not just some tail you are looking to score. Girls, make the boys work for it. Generally speaking, it is nice when a guy initially asks us out, but even then don't give it all up on the first date. Always leave them wanting more
2. The Ask
So for the first date, the asking should not be done over text. In a world that revolves around the Internet and phones, we have become too accustomed to hiding behind our screens. Asking someone out on a date should be done in person; a phone call is okay if the two of you really do not see each other otherwise. Girls, if a guy texts you to hang out (which is basically dating nowadays unfortunately) that should be your first red flag. Make them work for it.
3. The Timing
There use to be a saying about if the guy asks you after Wednesday, don't accept the date. This was because you are probably the guy's second option, and you should never be someone’s plan B. A guy asked me at eight o’clock on a Friday night to go hang out at his house, and I was baffled. Waiting until that point to ask someone to hang out makes you look bored or wanting something other than conversation. Be a man and ask the girl on a real date at the beginning of the week because most girls are really busy especially if they are in college. Girls need time to plan and fit you into their schedule. Ladies, if the guy asks you last minute, he is a boy, and you need a man in your life.
4. The First Date
Speaking of the asking, the location of a first date should not be at either person’s house. Personally, if the first date does not go well, I do not want the guy to know where I live. There are some crazies out there. Harsh? No, because the first date should be in a public place regardless. This shows that you are willing to be seen in public with this person, so if he/she suggests meeting up at his/her or your house, it could mean he/she might have a significant other in their life. Also, going on a public first date will allow you to dress nice, and that goes back to putting in the effort.
5. The Payment
In today’s society, girls are just as capable of paying as guys. However, it is nice for at least the first date for the guy to pay. If afterwards the two of you decide to take turns or split the bill, that is up to your discretion. If you are a girl and thinking you don't need a man to pay for your meal, I understand completely, but guys want to feel needed sometimes. And to the guys paying for the first date is not that big of a deal. I'm not saying to blow your paycheck, but if you cannot afford the 2 for $20 at Chili's one time, you probably have no business dating any how (sorry not sorry).
Dating is not hard, but in today's society it has become difficult. Dating is about getting to know the other person to see if you are compatible, and when doing so, have standards for your dating life. I'm not saying you need an astronomical amount that no human can live up to, but just a few guidelines covering what you are looking for in a person would be a good place to start. Also, make some guidelines for yourself to hold yourself accountable for your own actions. Basically, do not be a f***boy, and dating will be a breeze.
