Let’s talk about dating.

I know. 

At some point, it’s an annoying subject.

While dating can be difficult, it can also be rewarding.

3 ways to manage expectations when dating

Have Standards

Just like in book clubs and secret Santa exchanges, having standards when dating is KEY. 

Everyone wants someone who makes them happy, who supports them, and who they can learn from and grow with. Those are all great things.

But sometimes we can self-sabotage.

If you have a standard of “no one shorter than 6 feet,” guess what? You’re going to limit your pool of potential partners and miss out on some badass people. So don’t set yourself up for failure before you even get started.

Boundaries

Only talk to the people you want to talk to; don’t answer a call from anyone else. When you force anything, it never works out in the long run.

Have a roster: only hang out with three people at a time – hell, if you want to try hanging out with five people at a time, do it!

If one of them doesn’t work out, it’s not a big deal—you still have others left. Until you are in a relationship having a roster is not a bad thing. A roster does not mean you have to sleep with everyone, either. It just means you’re not fully investing in someone before things take off. 

Way too often you hear about singles who lose themselves and miss red flags during the talking phase of dating. 

Be Honest

You want someone who’s looking for something serious and long-term, not just looking for a good time. Don’t waste your time or theirs by pretending otherwise. It’s okay to be clear about what you’re looking for.

Sometimes a simple hookup can blossom into a thriving relationship, but that is not the norm. If you’re a corner puzzle piece and you try to force yourself into a middle piece – it won’t work. Be realistic. 

Ultimately if you don’t find someone that piques your interest, that’s okay! There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being single. There is no right or wrong way to be in life, and dating should never be a restriction on your happiness. 

You deserve to be with someone who treats you well and makes you happy—and if that person doesn’t exist yet, then have fun LIVING. 

Figure out who you are, have dates with yourself, and just live life to the fullest.