When it comes to dating, it's worth knowing that everyone gets it wrong sometimes. No-one is ever taught how to date, it's just something we're expected to know and, unfortunately, as much as we'd like it to be, it's never like it is in the movies!
One of the reasons dating has become so confusing is the massive change in gender roles of the past few years. Years ago, whilst dating still wasn't perfect, everyone knew where they stood. Men were expected to ask a woman out, hold the door for her, pull out her chair, and pay the bill. But, as more women entered the workplace, increasing their spending power, confidence, and their chance for equality not just at work but at home as well, these traditions began to fall out of fashion. Nowadays it's not a given that men will cover the bill. And, while I'm sure every woman likes a bit of chivalry once in a while, having your chair pulled out for you in a restaurant can feel awfully archaic.
So, in 2017, who should be doing what? Is it OK for a women to ask out a man? Should the bill be split 50/50 or broken down by what each person had? Add to this the fact that the dating landscape has changed with the introduction of apps and dating quizes and the whole dating game is a bit of a nightmare.
Fortunately, making mistakes when dating is common, so if you feel like you don't quite know what you're doing you're not the only one. People from all over the globe are facing the same dating challenges and dilemmas; no nationality, culture or ethnicity is immune. And, while some mistakes are common everywhere, other mistakes tend to be unique to a specific culture or ethnicity.
There is lots of confusion, angst and turmoil. To add to the confusion, we're constantly bombarded with conflicting dating advice too.
Despite this, everyone is doing the best they can. Ultimately, we're all looking for love because we all want to be happy. We're all seeking that connection with someone. Getting that all-important second date.
Dating is a numbers games and many of your first dates won't make it to a second date. This is completely normal. That said, here are a couple of things you can do to increase your dating success:
1)Make an effort. Don't turn up to a date in your work clothes or worse in your gym kit.
2)Stay away from 'no go' topics, for example, don't talk about politics, religion, sex, or about past relationships. And stay away from anything negative too. Instead, try and stick to light and fun topic areas.
In a nutshell aim to make a good first impression. Smiling and staying positive are also great ways to improve your chances.