Where to start with dating?

Dating can be such a fun process to participate in, but it can be difficult to know where to start.  A good first step with starting the dating process is considering what avenue you will use to date. There is no right or wrong path to take there but try to consider the pros and cons of each avenue.  For example, a lot of people will choose to try online dating apps first.  If you are going to do that, try to consider the pros and cons of doing that versus trying to meet people in person first. 

As you try to consider what avenue you will use to date, which you could use multiple if you wish, try to think about your values and what attracts you to someone.  Values to consider are if you are comfortable dating multiple people, when you are comfortable getting physical with someone, what you feel about labels, among other things.  Things to consider with attraction are physical characteristics you are attracted to, personality traits you are attracted to, compatibilities that are necessary for you, among other things.  As you consider compatibilities, make sure to consider things that you are comfortable adjusting versus things that you are not comfortable with changing.  For example, if you are religious and expect the person you date to believe in the same religion, you need to consider when starting the dating process. 

Like most things in life, it is important to have a balance in your life, so there is no dependence on one area, such as dating.  Make sure you have other outlets that bring value to your life, not just your dating world.  Things like friends, family, hobbies, etc., are great outlets to help bring a balance to your life.  When you have that balance, if things go poorly with dating, there will be outlets to help you cope with the difficult feelings around that.  Dating can be a fun process and an important investment of your energy, but make sure you are not giving all of your energy to it.