by Tim Steiner

Created on: November 06, 2008

Dating, does it have rules or simple guidelines. Many people think that dating has to follow at least a few rules to be successful. Others feel that dating is supposed to be fun and has a few suggested guidelines to be careful around. Discovery Health Online (DHO) has a list of Dos and Don'ts for the 21st century dating scene. I would agree for the most part but in this article I would like to state my feels for reasons to make your own rules. Dating is fun, and making your own rules can actually bring out the real nature of a person.

First off, and probably the most obvious DHO says that a person should be attentive to their date, do not act distracted. This is clearly the best rule especially when they say do not check out the wait staff. But in certain circumstances it can lead to knowing more about the person on the date. If you check out the cute server, and your date gives off the impression that its normal, then that might say they do a far share of looking as well. If your date makes it clear they are disgusted by this then you may be able to assume they are one to get jealous easily, but also are not one to do to much looking.

If you and your date are both people who do a far share of looking at others don't automatically assume it is a bad sign. Most people would say if you cant make it through the first date without looking at others then your probably doomed, I would say if you look at others, then you two can use this to break a moment of silence. Start talking about what traits in the opposite sex you find attractive, this will allow you to size each other up better.

DHO also suggests maintaining eye contact is important. On any normal occasion I would agree, but there are circumstance that would cause for change. Going to a movie for one, if you try to look into your date's eyes while they are trying to watch a movie, there is a chance to cause an awkward feeling. Also there are people out there with insecurities about they appearance including their eyes. If you try to lock on to their eyes they may feel as if you find a problem with them. Granted eye contact during conversation is important, being aware of your surroundings can be equally important.

Don't turn your date into a therapy session. DOH suggests that it is inappropriate to talk about past relationships on a first date. I disagree with this idea. Talking about why relationships worked so well for so long, or why they ended can give a you an idea of how your date will act in a relationship.

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