STEP ONE; Decide if you want to date or find a partner, as dating is often open-ended, while finding a partner requires a more focused approach. Dating may be fun but, it doesn't guarantee you're both on the same path or share the same values. Physical attraction doesn't determine if someone is good relationship material. Understand that dating isn't always a path to a relationship, and if you want a serious relationship, you need to be more focused. 

STEP TWO; Ensure you to get to know someone before getting physically involved. Physical intimacy can and does cloud our judgement. Wait until people drop their guard to see their true selves. For a long-term relationship, ensure your core values match, as these values cement a couple together long-term, if you just want some fun, these elements won't matter. 

STEP THREE; Don't waste your time on people who show no interest in a long-term relationship or who are inconsistent, up and down with their intentions. Ultimately if you do ignore these signs, it will be you who may have wasted several months or more, only to have to start again. It doesn't matter how you met, just stick to your goals and ask questions. If he's flakey or vanishes, he was never a keeper or serious in the first place. It's crucial to be bold and stick to what you want. You may have setbacks, but if you stick to certain steps, you will find someone sooner who aligns with your mindset. Don't rely solely on attraction; it's an emotional risk. 

STEP FOUR; Recognize that chemistry is important, but don't be governed by it completely. When chemistry is high, wait and watch. If met on an app establish if you're the only person they're seeing, check their profile status. This matters if you're hoping for commitment. If you don't do your homework or ask questions, don't be surprised if your goals don't match or take longer to reach. Ask the important questions before getting involved. 

STEP FIVE; You must take control of your dating life. Connections are often based on physical chemistry, but getting emotionally involved at this point is risky. Talking and asking questions six months down the line, won't help, if you have to ask after six months, are we exclusive, what are your relationship goals, leaves you vulnerable and makes it harder to walk away. You don't want to be someone's puppet, hoping things will improve, he'll change. Once you reach that stage, you're in a position of weakness. Only you can decide if you want a serious relationship, and if you do, do all you can to reach that goal without too much emotional fallout. Don't let anyone waste your time. 

GENERAL TIPS & ADVICE

More singles end up with fleeting partners than in long-term relationships because no one considers if the person has the same vision for a relationship. People date worldwide daily, but only a small proportion form long-term relationships, as dating is generally open-ended. Dating places less emphasis on shared paths, backgrounds, education, financial stability, and relationship objectives. Dating can be casual, recreational, networking, building a social circle, casual sex, or a confidence-building tool after a relationship. 

Never date someone recently divorced or widowed as most individuals need emotional healing, and likely need fleeting dating experiences before committing again. Men especially after divorce or losing a long-term partner tend to re-couple within a year, and equally drop out as swiftly. Not everyone on apps or a traditional dating agency seeks a life or marriage partner, so do your homework. If you are thinking of using an agency, determine if the agency talks about dates instead of relationships, if it's a relationship you seek, then ensure you minimise as many hurdles as possible. 

Every so often I will be providing new dating tips and advice to help you on your dating journey. If the idea of having your own personal matchmaker guide to hand sounds interesting, and you would like to know more about this service option, please request matchmaker details.