How to Maintain Perspective in a New Relationship

That nice-looking man whom you've been exchanging glances with and smiling at finally made an approach. He called when he said he would. It was a great conversation. You went out, and there was serious chemistry! You finally had that first kiss. Sparks! Now he's been calling regularly and you've had a couple of other dates. You're so excited you can hardly eat! You can hardly sleep!

While the beginning of a new relationship is exciting no matter how old you may be, there are codes of behavior you must adhere to for self-preservation!

Instructions

1. Realize that you must keep your emotions in check. Enjoy this time, but know that it's way too early to start naming the kids.

2. When he calls, don't stay on the phone too long. Right now, if he's not making plans to go out, then it's just idle conversation. Limit calls to 20 minutes.

3. Get busy! This is the perfect time to make sure you have something worthwhile going on other than him. Work out, help a friend, read to a child, do something that will enhance your life.

4. Don't make yourself totally available to him. You don't have to answer every call, email, or text message right away. You don't have to call him back immediately, although always return his calls. You don't have to agree to every date; it's okay to say that you have other plans. In fact, you sometimes should have other plans.

5. Know that things can swing either way right now, on both ends. He can decide this isn't for him, and so can you. This is the time for you to enjoy the rush, but at the same time observe his behavior and keep yours in check.