Okay, ladies, let’s talk dating. Because, let’s be real, the rules have changed. Gone are the days of waiting by the phone for him to call (thank goodness). But with all the apps, DMs, and mixed signals out there, it’s easy to feel like you’re navigating a minefield. So, I’m here to spill the tea on modern dating etiquette—what to do, what to avoid, and how to keep your sanity intact. Let’s dive in.
First things first: the “three-day rule” is dead. If you’re still waiting three days to text back because some outdated rulebook told you to, stop. Seriously. Modern dating is about authenticity. If you had a great time, text him the next day. A simple “Hey, I had fun last night” is perfectly fine. It shows confidence and keeps the momentum going. Plus, let’s be honest, playing games is exhausting. Who has the energy for that?
But here’s the flip side: don’t over-text. I know it’s tempting to send a paragraph about how much you loved that one joke he made, but resist the urge. Keep it light and casual in the beginning. Overloading someone with messages can come off as clingy, and we’re all about that balance, right?
Now, let’s talk about the first date. The golden rule? Don’t overthink it. Yes, you want to make a good impression, but trying too hard can backfire. Wear something that makes you feel confident, but don’t stress about being “perfect.” Authenticity is way more attractive than a flawless facade. And please, for the love of all things holy, don’t fake interests just to impress him. If you hate hiking, don’t say you love it just because his profile says he’s into it. Be honest about who you are—it’ll save you both time in the long run.
Oh, and speaking of first dates, let’s address the elephant in the room: who pays? Here’s my take: if he asked you out, it’s nice if he offers to pay. But don’t assume. Always be prepared to split the bill. It’s 2023, and equality is sexy. If he insists on paying, a simple “Thank you, I’ll get the next one” is a gracious response. It shows appreciation without making things awkward.
Now, let’s get into the messy stuff: mixed signals. We’ve all been there. He texts you every day for a week, then suddenly goes radio silent. What gives? Here’s the thing: if someone is genuinely interested, they’ll make an effort. If you’re constantly wondering where you stand, it’s probably a red flag. Don’t waste your energy trying to decode his behavior. Focus on people who show up consistently and make you feel valued.
And while we’re on the topic of red flags, let’s talk about boundaries. It’s okay to have them, and it’s okay to enforce them. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Whether it’s about physical boundaries, communication, or how he treats you, your comfort matters. A good partner will respect your boundaries, not push them.
But dating isn’t just about avoiding pitfalls—it’s also about having fun. Don’t take it too seriously. Not every date has to lead to a relationship. Sometimes, it’s just a fun night out with someone new. Embrace the experience, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself or the other person.
One thing I’ve learned is that confidence is key. Whether you’re swiping on apps or meeting someone in person, owning who you are is the most attractive thing you can do. Confidence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being comfortable in your own skin. So, wear that outfit that makes you feel amazing, laugh at your own jokes, and don’t be afraid to take up space.
And finally, remember that dating is a two-way street. It’s not just about whether he likes you—it’s about whether you like him. Don’t lose sight of what you want and need in a partner. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to impress someone, but the right person will be just as invested in impressing you.
So, there you have it—my unfiltered take on modern dating etiquette. It’s not about following a rigid set of rules; it’s about being true to yourself while navigating the complexities of relationships. Keep it real, keep it fun, and don’t settle for anything less than you deserve.