6 tips for getting your dating life back on track

No Date Again This Weekend?

By Kristin Cavins Special to Yahoo! Personals Updated: Jun 28, 2007

Another weekend is approaching and while your friends are excitedly discussing their Friday and Saturday night plans, are you dreading another weekend alone, cuddled up on the couch in your sweats, watching a "Grey's Anatomy" rerun?

Not having a date when you want one is miserable, but it should provide all the motivation you need to jump back into the dating game. Here are six tips to get you going:

1. Look at dating as a learning experience. So, you've had bad dates. Don't get discouraged! In dating, like everything else you do, practice makes perfect. After all, the whole object of dating is to find out what you do (and don't) want in a potential partner. Keep an open mind and you may be surprised at what you learn about yourself through dating.
   
   
2. Be true to you. When you try to be someone else, you're less likely to find "the one" who is right for you. We all want to make a good impression on a first date, but don't be so concerned about being perfect that you end up pretending to be someone you're not. You are looking for someone with whom you're compatible. That means taking a deep breath, relaxing and being you.
   
   
3. Make a list and check it twice. Take a moment to write down the qualities that you want in a partner. We all have a mental list of "must haves," but putting it down on paper makes it easier to identify the traits you are seeking. Otherwise, you may end up dating "that cute guy/girl you have nothing in common with" rather than finding someone you truly mesh with.
   
   
   but don't be so concerned about being perfect that you end up pretending to be someone you're not
   
   
4. Know why you're dating. It's OK to want to casually date rather than find a long-term relationship. But it's important to figure out what you want out of dating before you start the process. If you're seeking something long-term, make sure you're really "ready" and have resolved any baggage from previous relationships. One of the biggest mistakes is re-entering the dating world prematurely. You may meet the most amazing person, but if you're not truly ready, you'll overlook him/her.
   
   
5. Keep it light and fun. Remember, you're supposed to be having a good time on your dates. You don't have to be out with the man or woman of your dreams to enjoy yourself. If you've agreed to a date: dress up, enjoy your meal and conversation, and don't worry about whether it'll lead to date number two. Chances are, if you've been having fun, it will!
   
   
6. Take a fresh look at your online dating profile. If you aren't getting enough replies, add new photos that help people see who you are and why they ought to meet you. Choose photos that show you doing activities you enjoy. Likewise, look at your profile statement. Be specific about who you are and the kind of people you want to meet. Finally -- make the first move. Write to interesting people you find in your searches -- why wait for them to contact you?
   
   So, enough with the tips -- it's time to get back out there. Just because you don't have a special someone this weekend doesn't mean you won't have a date for next Saturday! Each date connects you with someone new. And, because dating is a numbers game, sooner or later you will meet someone who clicks with you.