Some people seem to both attract, and be attracted to drama in every area of their lives. They argue, instigate, spread gossip and rumors, and then wonder why they always seem to be at the center of controversy. For the most part, negative situations don't just happen. They are usually the result of a stimulus.

But occassionally, we find ourselves in explosive situations in our relationships, and have no idea how we got there. It is then that we must do a thorough evaluation of the situation, and find ways to difuse it before is gets out of hand.

The best way to date without drama is not allowing drama space in our lives, and keeping drama from having a long term effect on our relationships begins when we start dating. Negative issues distract from the enthusiasm two people share for one another, but positive interactions encourage positive growth.

Inviting positive people into our lives keeps us focused in a direction free from drama. We all know couples who seem to always be involved in something negative, whether their own or someone else's. They argue in public, complain about their lives, gossip about the lives of others, or always need money. Many times, we wonder why they are even together. We promise ourselves that we will never be involved in that type of relationship, and and we don't have to be.

KNOW WHAT YOU'RE GETTING INTO

Inviting positive people into our lives keeps us headed in a direction free from drama. A personality profile is a great way to determine if someone you might consider dating is attracted to drama. This can be done by simply asking questions and taking mental notes on conversations early in the relationship. If there is a tendency for that person to gossip, complain, get involved in other peoples mess, or if their lives are in disarray, there is a good chance that you'll be inviting the same things into your involvement with that person.

Even seemingly insignificant comments about other people could be a warning sign. If the evening is spent concerned about who is with whom, or what someone is wearing, then the focus is not on the two of you. If they show up to a date with a black eye because they helped their friend in a fight, that's a definite sign to stay away.

COMMUNICATE

Establishing open lines of communication promotes trust. It's important to be honest. Discussing issues with one another, both good and bad, reduces the possibility of small problems becoming big ones. Keeping the emphasis

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