Dating is a tricky enough business in itself, whether your relationship is brand new or going on its ten year anniversary. And while some dating mistakes are obvious (although sometimes not until you make them), others can be trickier to recognize. In fact, you may not even know you’re making them. Do you feel as if you are somehow going off track with your relationships, but not really sure how? Check to see if you are making any of these tricky dating mistakes.
Expecting too much or not enough:
Although these are exact opposites, these two are among the most common dating mistakes. Expecting too much while dating can lead to constant disappointment “ expecting an instant attraction, instant love and devotion, or even instant great sex (sometimes two people need to get to know each other first!) Not expecting enough leads to dating failure because, let’s face it, often times a guy will perform to the standards expected of him. If you expect him not to call, not to show up on time, not to give you the attention you want, he may not.
Judging yourself too harshly:
This mistake often pops up in a new dating relationship. In your own mind, every mistake you make is a horrendous one, every beauty flaw is glaring. Instead of focusing on your lack of social graces or the way your butt looks in the mirror, try focusing on all of your other gifts, whether it’s your fantastic breasts or your scintillating personality. Chances are, this is what your new guy will focus on as well.
Having a narrow focus:
If you are new (or returning to) the dating scene, one mistake to avoid is having too narrow a focus. Especially if you’ve just come out of a bad relationship. Try turning your focus to a new kind of guy, rather than making the same dating mistake all over again. If you usually go for jocks, try a brainier guy. If you’re shy, look for an extrovert. After all, you never know when Mr. Right will appear.
Playing games:
This can be the trickiest dating mistake of all, as many of us play games without even knowing it. This can be as simple as making a guy wait around while fixing your hair to not returning phone calls for two days. Playing games can be a mistake as it leads a guy to begin playing a few of his own, which is no fun for anyone. Try playing it straight in your next dating relationship and see how that works for you.
Not acknowledging your needs:
This is another new dating relationship mistake, as many women are so eager to be back on the dating scene they forget the real reason for dating in the first place “ to find a meaningful, satisfying relationship. This isn’t to say you should put your needs first all the time “ after all, every relationship involves a little give and take. But not acknowledging your own needs can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction that will only have a negative effect on your dating relationship.
