Spring has sprung! This season isn’t just about allergies and cleaning out your closet—it’s the perfect time to declutter your dating life. Let me explain…
No matter how long you’ve been single, we all can pick up some less-than-ideal habits as we navigate the dating world. No stress—it happens to the best of us. Let’s create space and make room for better dates. With a clear and open mind, who knows what great people you might come across when you venture back out there (might we suggest using POF?).
So, grab your Swiffer, vacuum, and some elbow grease. It’s time to clean up your dating life with a little game I like to call keep or toss.
Keep or Toss
Well, there’s no time like the present! Here’s what you should keep and what you might want to think about tossing in the (metaphorical) trash this spring.
Keep
An open mind
Toss
Overthinking
I think we can all agree that trying not to overthink is easier said than done. But, we can also all probably agree that overthinking has gotten us into some serious trouble, especially when it comes to dating. If you’re able to master quieting your mind, you’ll be open to more opportunities. Don’t let your thoughts hold you back from something great.
Keep
Having zero expectations
Toss
Having (unrealistically) high expectations
Sure, expecting someone you’re speaking with to have manners and common human decency is totally reasonable and recommended. When we ramp up our expectations too high though, it makes it almost impossible for anyone to live up to them. It’s great to know what you’re after, but going on dates without harsh expectations can be a good way to meet people you might never have crossed paths with. Trust me—it makes dating less stressful and more fun.
Keep
Looking after yourself
Toss
Putting others first
You know what relationship is more important than anyone you’re dating? The one between you and yourself. As cheesy as it sounds, it’s true. If you don’t put yourself first and set boundaries when you need to, it can be difficult to make those authentic connections you’re looking for. Once you start giving yourself the time and care you really deserve, you’ll likely find you’re able to show up for others in a bigger and better way.
Keep
Living in the moment
Toss
Letting the past affect the present
Holding on to past dating mistakes or regrets? It’s time to move forward and keep the past in the past! It’s important to reflect on past events so you can process and learn from things that have happened, but it’s even more important to know when to leave the past behind you and move forward. Staying present doesn’t just benefit you, it benefits the people you spend time with – especially new potential partners. You get to say goodbye to any baggage that’s no longer serving you, and they get to be with the best version of you. Sounds like a win-win to me.
So Fresh, So Clean
Whew! Now that you’ve tossed out the trash, don’t you feel lighter? I know I do. It’s not always easy to toss those behaviors we find ourselves slipping into so easily, but it’s necessary for that spring growth. Now, we can all get ready for better dates that bring more fun and less stress. Plus, better weather, which I’m totally here for.
