Gransnet forums

Relationships

Tips for dating, what red flags to look for?

(61 Posts)
ineedamum Wed 17-Jun-20 09:33:38

Lots of excellent advice again, thank you.

Liz46 Wed 17-Jun-20 08:16:40

Is he kind and does he make you laugh?

Urmstongran Wed 17-Jun-20 07:59:54

Don’t think you can ‘change him’ if you come to discover things you’re wary about. What you see IS what you get. Leopards and spots. Only you can decide what is acceptable in a partner.

mumofmadboys Wed 17-Jun-20 07:06:05

Just see how things go. Dont anticipate the future. Keep seeing your other friends and keep up with your interests. Good luck and enjoy the new relationship.

ineedamum Wed 17-Jun-20 05:52:58

Thanks sodapop.

sodapop Tue 16-Jun-20 13:06:21

I lived alone for ten years before I remarried ineedamum and I did change during that time. I was more independent and knew I didn't necessarily need a partner to be happy.
I think a sense of humour is vital, kindness and tolerance. In my case the fact that he was a chef swung things, I hate cooking.
Take your time and relax with your new friend. Move forward with him and don't stress about the past. Good luck.

ineedamum Tue 16-Jun-20 11:06:52

Thanks.

Teetime Tue 16-Jun-20 10:54:32

Dee1012 has some excellent advice. I would also beware of someone who talks about themselves a lot!

ineedamum Tue 16-Jun-20 10:49:58

Thank you, you have given me a few good tips. I will definitely listen about exes, we haven't really touched on this yet.

Dee1012 Tue 16-Jun-20 10:09:53

A couple of things my Dad told me;
No matter how busy a man is, if he really wants to see you, he will make time for you. No excuses, lies, or broken promises.
He won’t push for sex early on.
He will remember your interests and act on them.
Mutual appreciation is an important ingredient in the glue that holds a relationship together. It’s not only about the big things, either. A man who would make a good long term partner should show appreciation for even the small things you do.

Take your time too...see him a couple of times a week and let things develop slowly, look at his relationships with family / friends etc.
I'm always keen to know about relationship history too - I think that's really telling. I dated someone once who when talking about ex girlfriends, always put the "blame" on them!

Most importantly, relax and enjoy yourself, we all deserve to smile a little.
Best of luck.

ineedamum Tue 16-Jun-20 09:41:36

I have met a nice man 4 times now, (just walking and sunbathing) but due to my past am scared of repeating the same mistakes. After a year of dating we split, as I attract men who don't want next stage of commitment or are selfish.

My mother was in a controlling abusive relationship with my father and I fear I have gone the other way, just avoided them and have been told I'm too indepenedent.

I have been single for many years now, so perhaps I've developed since I last dated.

It is early stages and we will meet again. But what tips do you have to make sure it is slow and steady and what signs do I look for? How do I know if it is genuine or I'm just settling after being single for so long?

I definitely feel happier and am smiling, is that OK after short period of time?