While our parents mean well (bless their hearts), sometimes their advice isn’t practical anymore. The truth is—dating has changed quite a bit. What worked back in the day doesn’t work as well these days. Let’s look at some of those well-intentioned yet outdated pieces of relationship advice & why they’re no longer useful.
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Wait Three Days to Call After a Date
Remember when they told you to wait three days before calling someone after a date? It was meant to stop you from seeming too eager—but if you wait three days to get in touch now, the other person might think you’re ghosting them. Instant messaging & social media have made our communication a lot faster. As such, playing it cool by waiting might just lose you a chance at a second date.
The Man Should Always Pay
The idea that the man should foot the bill on dates was a nice gesture way back when. But today? We care more about equality. Many people prefer to split the bill to avoid any awkwardness or assumptions about financial duty. Better yet, it also shows that you’re both in this together right from the start.
Don’t Discuss Politics or Religion on the First Date
Avoiding hot-button topics like politics or religion on the first date isn’t as safe a bet as you might think. People want to know if their values fit early on rather than finding out they’re complete opposites months into the relationship. You need to work out the difference between respectful discussions & understanding that it’s okay to have different viewpoints.
Play Hard to Get
The old “play hard to get” advice is supposed to make you more desirable–but really, it’s confusing. Clear communication is the centerpiece of all modern relationships. People appreciate honesty & knowing where they stand instead of trying to decode mixed signals. It’ll also save you a lot of energy.
A Successful Relationship Requires Common Interests
Of course, sharing interests can be great but it’s not the be-all and end-all of a relationship. What’s more important? Respecting & showing interest in each other’s passions, even if they’re not your cup of tea. The main goal is to build a sense of understanding and connection between the pair of you.
Online Dating is Desperate
Gone are the days when online dating was a last resort for the loveless. Now, it’s just another way to meet people, with plenty of options that you might not get in your daily life. It’s become a very normal part of the dating world—so dismissing it might mean missing out on some great opportunities.
Marriage Should Be Your Ultimate Goal
The idea that marriage should be what every relationship aspires to puts unnecessary pressure on people. Yet happiness & commitment aren’t a one-size-fits-all policy. For some people, a long-term partnership without marriage is just as fulfilling—and that’s perfectly okay. Everyone’s life is different!
Avoid Long-Distance Relationships
People used to think that long-distance relationships were practically impossible to maintain. Yet that’s simply not true with today’s technology. They’re more manageable than ever! Video calls, messaging apps & social media bridge the gap to make these relationships a genuine possibility.
Your Partner Should Complete You
Jerry Maguire was wrong — The idea that your partner should “complete you” is totally unrealistic. Instead, you should see a partner as someone who complements your life. Being whole on your own and finding someone who improves your life is a far more sustainable approach to relationships. You’re completely whole on your own.
Keep Your Relationship Problems Private
While it’s true that you shouldn’t air your dirty laundry for the whole world to see, keeping your relationship problems completely private is just as bad. Sometimes, talking to someone you trust can give you the support you need. Choose who you confide in wisely—but don’t bottle everything up.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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