How to Follow the Steps of Courtship

Although attitudes toward traditional courtship have changed, the goal has remained the same. The courtship period serves as a time of relationship building to decide if a mutual future is possible for the involved parties. While there is no rigid guide that defines your actions during courtship, following a few steps will make the time more beneficial for you and your potential mate.

Instructions

Talk

1. Establish honest communication. The first step to building a long lasting relationship involves building trust. Refrain from telling "little white lies" or half truths. Talk openly about your feelings as well as daily events. This helps provide the relationship with a solid foundation.

2. Develop healthy relationships with each others friends. Although you will keep your own friends, it is important to know these influential people who share time and advice with your mate. You should also take the time to make mutual friends that you both will feel spending time with.

3. Respect what is important to one another. Celebrate anniversaries and birthdays to show appreciation. Take time to learn things that make each other happy and do them together. For example, if your mate likes dolphins, why not purchase tickets and accompany her on her first swim with dolphins?

4. Meet and greet family members. Although you have heard so much about her Uncle Fred, it can be nerve wracking preparing for the first face to face meeting. Be honest and respectful when being introduced to family members. If you are the one making the introductions, be sure to support and reassure your partner.

5. Avoid rushing things. The purpose of courtship is to take time to get to know each other. While marriage may be a possibility , don't assume it is an inevitability. Use this time to sort out your own feelings and ensure that love is the motivation behind your actions.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep things fresh by trying new activities together.

• Relationships and feelings often change over time. Take time to reaffirm your feelings for each other.

• Never belittle your mate's interests or dreams.