Things You'll Need:
- Notebooks
- Writing Pens
- Notebooks
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Step 1
Identify the top three to five must-have characteristics you want in a primary partner and in a significant relationship. For example, your must-haves might include a sense of humor, financial stability, or consistent romance.
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Step 2
Write a list of when and how your current dating partner demonstrated these must-have characteristics during the past two weeks, the past month, and the past six months.
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Step 3
Rate your satisfaction with your dating partner's performance in terms of your must-haves.
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Step 4
Identify and take note of points where your dating partner disappointed you, even a little bit. Disappointment is a natural, normal and inevitable part of every relationship.
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Step 5
Ask yourself, truthfully and honestly, how you will cope with these natural, normal and inevitable disappointments.
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Step 6
Pretend you are your dating partner and answer steps 1 through 5 from his or her perspective.
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Step 7
Identify current environmental stressors that might temporarily slow down the progression of your dating relationship to a more serious level.
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Step 8
Practice using words that are comfortable to you when you ask your dating partner if she or he is interested, willing and motivated to create a more serious, committed relationship.
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Step 9
Identify a trusted friend to listen to your planning and practicing. The security and love of a relationship never replaces the valued wisdom of friendships.
