Be honest – how many New Year’s resolutions have you broken already?
According to renowned psychologist John Norcross of the University of Scranton (USA), 25 per cent of New Year’s resolutions are broken within the first week. What’s more, only 50 per cent of people make it to February.
So if you’re single and reading this story, chances are your goal of finding love may already be off track before it has really begun.
To avoid being another statistic, Samantha Jayne, director of Blue Label Life, Australia’s largest, most successful private matchmaking agency, has revealed the 11 steps to success in 2021.
1. Set an action plan
Now that you know what isn’t working, commit to doing something new that will work. Based on your insights about the old patterns, create new dating rules and patterns. Get a friend to hold you accountable for your actions, or lack thereof.
2. Be positive
Negativity is the number one turn off when it comes to dating for both men and women. Give up the “No one likes me,” “I’ll never find anyone,” “I’m giving up” negative mindset. Be positive. You get back what you put out.
3. Positive body language
Get this; 60 per cent of all communication is nonverbal. A further 30% is your tone. That means, 90% of what you’re saying, isn’t coming out of your mouth.
4. Change your routine
Try new things to meet new people. Dance classes, cooking classes and mixed sporting teams are good places to meet potential partners.
5. Give yourself a chance
If fear held you back last year, find a friend and commit to finding two dates or singles events a month.
6. Give your date a chance
If you tend to find fault with everyone you date, commit to giving everyone at least three chances to impress. The “three-date rule” has been proven to be the best way to truly begin to know someone. Also read: Dating For Professionals..Single No More!
7. Style and dress to impress
I’m not saying you need to dress like a supermodel, but a little style and fashion never hurt anyone. Avoid track pants in public!
8. Spend time with the people who make happy
As the saying goes, you are coloured by the company you keep. This year, spend time with those you bring out the best in you. It may also be a good time to mend broken relationships with just a few kind, but often challenging words.
9. Pay attention to the world around you
You may have already met this person but haven’t been paying attention. The guy/girl at the supermarket, at your dry cleaner’s, at work – these could all be people you’re overlooking.
10. Smile more
It sounds simple enough, but a smile goes so far in making a good first impression.
11. Believe that love can happen for you this year
As French philosopher René Descartes says, “I think, therefore I am”. Believing in yourself is half the battle!
At any rate, here’s to making and keeping (at least longer than two weeks) our New Year’s resolutions.
