How to Date Well

Dating well is certainly possible. But since "well" is a relative term, you need to date on your own terms. There are some guidelines you should follow in order to determine the reason you're dating. Once defined, you'll know how to be successful in your pursuit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Determine the reason you're dating. Be honest with yourself. If you're looking to marry, just admit it. If you want a companion to have fun with, but aren't ready to get serious, that's OK. Make sure you know what you're after. This mental preparation will determine the people you attract and are attracted to.
2. Write a "Must Do Before I Die" list. If you're looking for a life-partner, this is valuable to help weed people out as you date. Sharing your list and asking someone you're getting serious with about his can help you decide whether there's long-term compatibility. Dating well means thinking about long-term compatibility.
3. Listen to your date. Figure out if she has the same goals as you about what she needs right now from a dating relationship. Many people spend so much time focused on how good someone makes them feel that they forget to use their brains to rationalize and ask for information before getting heavily involved.
4. Find out what your "deal breakers" are. Deal breakers are what would end the relationship if they ever happen. Dump your date when it happens. Don't make excuses that "it was just this time" or "he can change." End it.