1. Don’t make big plans too soon: Do not automatically begin discussing the future, money, kids, and other big plans as soon as you start dating someone. Give yourself time to have fun, and when the time is right, this discussion will come up. If you bring the topic up too early, you risk scaring your partner and making him/her feel pressured. This affects how relaxed they will be around you.
2. Being dishonest: Dating is a time when two people size each other up and come to a decision whether or not they can stay with each other for real. If you want your partner to see you as someone they can be with for a long time, you need to be honest with them. Being caught in a lie will instantly ruin this dating period. Besides, if they cannot handle the truth, the early dating period is the best time for them to leave, since you will find it easier to move on too.
3. Not being you: Dating is a chance to have a good time with someone who takes you for who you are. Avoid the temptation of changing yourself just to impress your partner, especially if you feel intimidated by them. If you do not like her hangout spots or his favourite sport, speak up and don’t pretend you do. These little differences will not break your relationship, but being fake will.
4. Expecting too much: Nobody is perfect. Do not instantly expect someone you just met to provide all you needs, emotionally and otherwise. Give yourself a chance to see what they have to offer, and decide if you are okay with it. Do not instantly expect them to begin fulfilling your needs.
5. Introducing third party: The early dating period should be all about you getting to know your partner without external influences. It is inevitable that the longer you date, the more people become interested in your relationship, and sometimes, this might not be a good thing. So, enjoy this period when it is just the two of you, as long as you can.
6. Introducing sex: Introducing sex too early in the relationship could cloud your judgment. You might begin to think someone is right for you simply because the sex is good, and this might cause you to make a big mistake. Instead, give yourselves time to get to know each other, and when it becomes clear that the relationship is real, sex can then be introduced.
7. Letting fear rule: Do not let fear rule this dating period. Some people are plagued by the fear of abandonment, of being alone, of rejection or of getting hurt and this can cause them to hold on to something that is not real or let go of a good potential. No one knows the future, but attempt open your heart to enjoy the present without destroying things simply because you are afraid.
