Dating

In romantic relationships, two distinct individuals must strive to make decisions not just for themselves, but for the health of their shared relationship. Some of the most beautiful aspects of romance are intertwined with this sense of unity and oneness; the most difficult parts of maintaining healthy relationships, however, also have to do with the conflicts that arise when partners disagree. In this two-part article, we first explore the most common sources of contention between romantic partners. Are any of these topics causing strain in your current relationship? Have these issues ca... more ...

As the months become warmer and more pleasant, many of us find ourselves wanting to fall into fun, light-hearted summer relationships. A 2017 survey of young adults noted that nearly three-quarters of those surveyed had, at one time or another, transformed a summer fling into a longer-lasting relationship. Unfortunately, nearly half of those surveyed also noted that their flings had ended because one partner thought things were more serious than they were; more than half of those surveyed had also been caught off-guard when a summer lover informed them that their relationship wasn’t goin... more ...

Though most of us would like to think of ourselves as fully independent beings, we are, in reality, very much affected by the individuals we spend our time with. As adults, perhaps no one shapes our lives as much as our romantic partners. As we enter into long-term relationships, many of us gradually notice changes in our attitudes and behaviors, sometimes for the better, and sometimes for the worse. In healthy, flourishing romantic partnerships, individuals often mold one another into better versions of themselves. Researchers have dubbed this process the “Michelangelo Phenomenon,&... more ...

You might think that it’s the most physically beautiful people who get approached most when at bars and other dating hotspots. This, in fact, isn’t necessarily true! Simple body language cues, signaling interest, availability, and self-confidence, are actually the best means of luring in potential mates!Though body language is often an unconscious art, you can also be proactive in your use of body language, actively signaling your interest. By becoming more literate in body language, you can also better “read” the signals projected by others, allowing you to more easily... more ...

The month of April signals the beginning of spring. As the trees begin to sprout new leaves and flowers begin to bloom, the weather often becomes gray and drizzly. Though the growing plants need the precipitation, rainy days can often put a damper on our plans, particularly when they involve spending time outdoors. Have your plans been foiled by an unexpected downpour? If so, try one of these fun date ideas instead!  Get Gaming Gaming, in all of its many shapes and forms, is an excellent indoor dating activity. Visit an arcade and play retro pinball games or classics like P... more ...

Throughout history, individuals around the world have sought out lasting relationships, many of which were made official through the institution of marriage. In centuries past, the courtship process was far different than it is today. “Dating” as we now know it has only existed since the late 1800s. How did courtship and dating evolve over the past centuries and decades? Here are a few interesting facts that you might not have known! Courtship in Past Centuries Before the advent of modern dating, marriages were traditionally viewed as transactional bonds arranged for... more ...

After years of dating, most of us have come to realize that the majority of our first dates aren’t going to lead to lasting relationships. That being said, it can be frustrating to have potential partners cut things off without providing explanations. Perhaps you really felt as though this person could have been “the one.” Why, then, are you still struggling to find a committed partner? Though it’s possible that you simply haven’t met the right person yet, your own habits and behaviors could also be contributing to your perpetual singleness. Are you accidenta... more ...

As with the winter holidays, being single on Valentine’s Day can be disheartening. Though the holiday is meant to celebrate love and romance, it can make singles feel as though there’s something wrong with them or their lives.Though romantic in theory, Valentine’s Day is ultimately an overrated holiday! Here are a few reasons to skip Valentine’s Day this year, as well as a few alternative ways you can celebrate on your own. Valentine’s Day Makes Us Feel Unloved As if society doesn’t push images of love and romance down our throats enough, Valentine... more ...

Going out on a first date can be stressful! In addition to worrying about the impression you’ll make, you and your date also need to choose an activity to engage in together! Most first dates involve meeting up at a conventional dating hotspot, such as a local pub, coffee shop, or cinema. After so many beers, cappuccinos, and bags of popcorn, however, things can get pretty boring. Constantly engaging in the same routine often leads to the same uninteresting interactions. Instead of taking your new love interest out for dinner and a movie, do something different for a change! Choose ... more ...

The world of dating can be fraught with awkward encounters. First dates can be particularly hit-or-miss. Sometimes, the conversation flows and sparks fly. At other times, you might find yourself wanting to climb through a bathroom window just to get out of a bad date! Though it can be hard to laugh about a painful encounter while you’re suffering through it, many bad dates can be funny in retrospect. Here are a few dating disaster stories that are guaranteed to make you cringe and laugh! Let Me Entertain You Most dates involve some discussion of one’s family and frie... more ...