Do you find yourself wondering why most of your buddies
have steady dates, yet you can barely secure a first date, let alone a second
(and, playing a regular game of Mahjong and Canasta with your grandparents and
their friends doesn't count)? Guys, if so, it's time to ask yourself a few questions...
Do you... have a problem with eye contact? Even if you love
everything about this other person, it won't matter, if you can't take your eyes
off their body parts. They'll likely think you're out for one thing, or that
you're just kind of creepy. Sure, they might be wearing something revealing, but
that's no excuse to stare all night long. Get a grip and get comfortable with
eye contact, which creates a much better bond.
Do you... eat like a caveman? Utensils are there for a
reason -- so you can eat like a gentleman. Shoveling food into your mouth is not
something you should subject your date to. Same goes for talking while chewing.
Not only is it unpleasant to watch at a time when your job is to be easy on the
eyes, it's a red flag that says you're a little short on self-awareness -- an
important characteristic in a mate.
Do you... trim your toenails? Not that your date will
necessarily see your toenails right away, but when they do end up eyeballing
them, unkempt toenails are a guaranteed huge turnoff. It means you don't take
care of yourself, and valuing yourself is an important part of a healthy
relationship. Plus, let's not forget the damage they can do to the other
person's leg when you're snuggling up on the sofa watching movies.
Do you... order "everything on the side" at a restaurant?
In other words, do you order like a girl? Please don't. Because if your date
has to be tortured by, "I'll have the Cobb salad, but no cheese, avocado, or
bacon, and dressing on the side, and the pasta, but no oil please, and extra
light on the pine nuts," they may be forced to hide under the table or at least
wonder what kind of demanding partner you could be. If you have dietary
restrictions, do your best, just don't get into what will happen to your belly
if you don't follow them.
Do you... assume you're going to strike out? The
Secret said it once but we'll say it again: In a lot of ways, you manifest
your own destiny. So, if you have lots of thoughts about being unlucky in love,
you may be pushing people away in ways you may not even know. If you assume the
worst of the world and yourself, spend a few minutes before your date making a
mental list of why you're looking for a relationship and why you are an
incredible a catch.