10 Things We Should All Know About Dating By Now

3. First dates don't want to do an activity. At least until you’re a few dates in and know each other somewhat. A drink or a walk to get coffee are acceptable first dates. People are busy – all afternoon bowling can feel like a big time commitment to someone you don’t even know you get on with yet. 

4. Your mates, and long-term partners do want to do an activity. Be the first to suggest mini golf, pottery class or dumpling making as a new way to spend time together, get a bit competitive and learn a new skill together. 

5. Wear something that feels like you. This applies to all scenarios. Prospective partners need to meet the real you – yes, a hot version, but today is not the day to test out the opposite to what you’d usually wear. If you’re a sneakers person, don’t show up in 6-inch heels you can’t walk in. You won’t feel comfortable and that will distract from the conversation. 

6. Assume the best in new people. And good intentions. If they need to postpone once, that’s ok. Expect sincerity on their part followed by an effort to reschedule - the ball’s now in their court.

7. Your ‘number’ is a juvenile thing to concern yourself with. See also, their number. It’s no measure of character and that’s all that matters. 

8. Don’t bombard people or message huge chunks of text. And conversely, don’t wait a certain amount of time before texting back. If you want to reply now, do it. Just… be cool. 

9. If things don’t go anywhere and the feeling isn’t mutual, be gracious and move on. You know what they say about fish and sea. 

10. Speaking of fish, we really aren’t impressed by them. Do you have another profile photo? Maybe at that pottery class with your friend?