7 Dating Habits We Should Be Practicing

While many acts of chivalry can help to show someone you care for them, they are just that – acts. It is possible for someone’s intentions to be masked by their temporary politeness – but what deeper, even more genuine dating habits do we need to bring to the forefront to help build stronger relationships?

Here are a few examples that can only solidify your foundation.

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Call, don’t text a date invite.

While this one is listed as an act of chivalry to bring back, it takes more thought and effort than simply opening a door or pulling out a chair. What makes it even more important is how rare it is – there is some searching involved to find a woman who has gotten an actual phone call invite, rather than a text.

Girls: It’s important to note that if you’ve got a track record of not answering the phone, a man can only be expected to try this so many times before he texts, or gives up.

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Pay attention. Really.

When it comes to dating, often times both people are so concerned with what the other thinks of them, that they forget the most important part: Learning about him/her! A date only feels like an interview if you feel like you’re looking for someone’s approval, but you’re really not.

Dating should be about exploring common likes and interests, finding out what makes the other person tick, having in-depth, meaningful conversations. Is this someone you can see spending a lot of time with in the long term? You’ll only know that if you pay attention to what they are all about. Listen, absorb, and act on it in the future.

You have two ears and one mouth for a reason – listen twice as much as you speak.

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Always keep your word.

This goes for all aspects of life, not just dating – but it’s equally important in this realm as well. If you are going to text (or call) after work, do it. If you are going to “eventually” do something – make sure you put in the effort to get it done. Someday is not a day of the week, and the second you start to slip on your promises, the second the other person will begin losing faith in you.

Don’t cancel on a date unless it is absolutely unavoidable to do so – and if you have to, make sure it’s a reschedule and not just a cancel (given you really like this person). If you cancel without an alternative in mind, it will make them feel like you’re dismissing them, and worse – dismissing their feelings.

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Actually plan a date.

Since men are typically the ones who are doing the inviting, planning, and paying – this point is more for the guys. If you’re planning to do something with a woman you’re actually interested in, odds are you’ve been speaking to her for long enough to figure out her likes and interests. This should give you a solid idea of, at the very least, the kind of food she does or doesn’t like.

The first date I planned with my girlfriend included a light show to the music of the Boston Pops by a 75 ft christmas tree, black car service, and dinner on the water. Sound a little over the top? It was – but I knew it would be worth it.

Girls: If you want this, the first thing to stop doing is accepting “Hey, wanna meet up?” type invites. Men will take the easiest path to where they want to go, but it’s up to you to accept or deny his advances.

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Work to gain trust – don’t just expect it.