Common Dating Rules to Follow in the Modern World

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We have come a long way from the days of sending postal mail and waiting for a long period to hear from that crush you met once in a summer camp. But now we have phones, the Internet, and so many television shows covering this dating topic. Nonetheless, trends have evolved so much that it's even confusing how you are supposed to handle things with this hot dame that you just met.

Dating apps are the new norm nowadays. All you have to do is to download Tinder or Bumble, set up a decent profile, including your pics, hobbies, and interests, where you study or work, and so on. You are also required to specify the kind of a person you are looking for, how old they should be, their distance from you, and so forth. You will then be able to see profiles of people matching your tastes; should you press "Like" and they like you back, that's a match.

Now here we are — you have matched with your partner and start getting acquainted, flirting away, and even exchanging numbers. You have built so much heat between you two and exchanged steamy pics to a point where you can't wait anymore to meet in person and start dating. But how do you translate that heated online romance and sexual tension to tangible physical affection and serious dating?

Basic Rules for Modern Dating

Although there's no surefire formula that's set in stone on how you should approach dating in the 21st century, there are some basic guidelines that you can follow to find your way around this confusing topic.

• Experiment with multiple partners

Now, we are not talking about promiscuity here. We are looking at a scenario where you can only make a perfect choice if you have options. For instance, if you met a guy online, clicked, had two dates, and then fell in love and moved in together, you may be missing out. By all means, take your time when you start going out with several people and know what's out there.

• Keep your dates short

People arrange dates for different reasons. Probably you want to make new friends, land a hookup, or meet a serious person for dating. In case you are looking to make friends or land a hookup, this may not apply to you. However, if you are trying to get something serious, don't be too available. Meet someone for ample time and then let the chemistry sink in.

• Avoid talking about exes and past breakups too soon

Everybody carries some baggage into a new relationship. However, nobody wants to be bombarded by details about your exes or previous sex partners on the first date. You have to focus on developing a bond between the two of you and becoming friends who can share even the most intimate details. Remember, this is very important in dating; leave your history book at home.

• Wait for a few dates before having sex

The question of when you should have sex when dating remains a very contentious issue since the beginning of time. Some people get their answers from religion, others tradition, and others — from the recent Dr. Internet. No matter what belief system you follow, you should only have sex on the first date if you aim for a hookup. If you want a serious relationship, wait for a few dates to earn your partner's trust.

• Check on the communication patterns

Communication is key in dating. For instance, after the first date, you don't have to feel obliged to thank your partner for taking you out, as long as you showed them genuine interest during the date. You could, however, check if they got home safe. A good idea is to not text or call excessively to give each other time to reflect on your feelings. However, if your crush ignores you for a long time without proper explanation, it might be wise to move on.

Important dating rules to remember:

• Anyone can clear the bill, not just the guy
• Always practice safe sex
• Stay open-minded to avoid getting hurt