A few helpful rules for men

“Casual” Dating 101

When you are NOT looking to get into a relationship…

DO NOT

say “you’ve met me at the perfect time. I’m emotionally and mentally available.”
introduce her to your son
leave a bunch of your stuff over at her apartment
make future plans with her
spend tons of time with her and stay over at her place a lot


Why? Because if you do these things, you risk misleading her into thinking you want something more serious.

DO

indicate to her that you are dating others
let her know you are not ready to get into a relationship
be honest!


Other, general dating DON’Ts

Hypothetical Situation: the girl you are dating helps to arrange for you to be the featured artist at a weekend exhibit. The event takes place in a venue where you and the girl spent time together on the first night you met. One of the girl’s best friends works at the venue. Unfortunately, neither the girl nor her friend can attend, as they are both out of town that weekend.

At this event:

Do NOT, under any circumstances, pick up on the co-worker of the good friend of the girl you are dating.

[Also, as an aside, do not pick up on ANY of the girl’s friends. This should be common sense, but sadly, sometimes is not. Especially when alcohol is involved.]

Do NOT make out in public places with the co-worker of the girl’s good friend.

Do not bring presents to the co-worker in her place of work (remember, the girl’s good friend ALSO works there).

Most of all, do NOT invite the co-worker to come over and spend the night at your house the night before you and the girl are going on a weekend trip together.

Summary: IF you choose to date several women at once, make sure they DO NOT know each other. Remember, Sacramento is a small town!