You Need to Break a Few Rules If You Want to Improve Your Love Life
When it comes to dating, sometimes you’ve got to break a few rules to find what you’re really looking for! So, here are some conventional ideas about dating that you can actually ignore to improve your love life. We got them from MSN and Match.com:
- Rule #1: Rebound relationships never last. Look, while it’s healthy to mourn a relationship’s end, that doesn’t mean you should dismiss someone great you meet while you recoup. Dr. Brent Atkinson of The Couples Clinic says that all breakups are NOT the same. Some couples have mentally broken up long before things become official. So, instead of focusing on the timing of a new relationship, think about where you are emotionally after a breakup. This is a better indicator of whether a rebound relationship will work.
- Rule #2: Only date one person at a time. Every so often, the stars align and several new prospects come along at once. Guess what? You don’t have to settle down with one person right away. Playing the field is the smartest way to find what you’re really looking for, because too often, people commit to the first person who comes along. Then a few months later, they realize the relationship isn’t working out and have to start all over again. Save yourself the time by simply dating a little longer. Just be sure to be up front with everyone you’re seeing. Let each person know that you’re in “dating mode” and not interested in getting exclusive yet.
- One last rule you CAN break when it comes to dating: Wait for the other person to say “I love you” first. Saying the L-word for the first time is a huge turning point in any relationship, and like a lot of people, you may feel the urge to let your partner to take the lead. Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Atkinson says there’s no hard and fast rule for saying those three little words. Sharing your feelings is courageous, and people tend to be attracted to others with a fearless, ‘go-for-it’ approach to life. So, instead of obsessing over whether or not to say it, Atkinson suggests just going for it. Getting your feelings out in the open is what takes a good relationship a great level.
