How to start a new relationship off right :

I'm so excited for you as you begin seeing someone new! I totally remember that magical feeling when my partner and I were in the early stages. I was so into him, yet a bundle of happy nerves too.

If you've recently met an awesome girl you want to get to know better, here's my best advice for building a solid foundation:

One of the key things you'll want to do upfront is have in-depth, two-way conversations to learn all about her passions. Ask open-ended questions to get insight into what makes her tick - favorite books/music/movies, what she geeks out on, dreams and goals, special memories, and anything else about her interests. And be fully present and engaged when she shares tidbits about herself. Maybe she loves hunting for vintage graphic tees and denim jackets at her favorite thrift shops, is trying to slowly cultivate her own tiny herb garden on the balcony of her apartment, or has ambitions to teach English abroad someday. Understanding the nuances of what she cares about gives you clues to come up with creative, personalized date ideas she'll be excited about.

Also vital - resist any urge to be someone you're not just to try to impress her. Believe me, we all want to seem “cool” and sophisticated around a new crush. But real relationships are built on authenticity. Let her truly see the real you in all your wonderfully imperfect glory. Share your goofball laugh, nerdy interests, endearing quirks. If she's the right one for you, she'll appreciate your unique brand of wonderfulness! My partner fell hard for me, giant sneezer, janky dancer, snack obsessive and all.

When planning dates, tap into your creativity. You absolutely don't have to spend a ton or plan elaborate outings - simple activities can be super memorable too. Think mini golf, checking out a street fair, ice skating, cooking or baking together, playing board games, having a picnic. Choose things you'll both genuinely enjoy that will let you talk, laugh, and bond. Don't go broke trying to show off. Making a sincere effort means so much more.

Compliment her, but make sure it's genuine. We all love receiving authentic praise. I still have all the sweet little notes my partner wrote me in the early days. Look for small opportunities to compliment when you sincerely appreciate or admire something about her - her intelligence, kindness, quirky fashion sense, whatever it is. But it has to come from a real place, not empty flattery.

Keep communication flowing freely too. Have regular two-way talks where you really listen with interest as she shares her hopes, dreams, worries, random thoughts, anything on her mind. Be open and vulnerable in sharing about yourself too. My partner and I would chat for hours after dates! That raw openness created such an unbreakable bond so early on.

Important - let physical intimacy happen at its own pace. Never pressure her into anything she's not 100% enthusiastic about. Going slowly builds amazing comfort, trust and anticipation. Enjoy the exciting process! Some of my favorite early moments were innocent snuggles on the couch just talking for hours, with no expectations for more physical stuff,

Most of all, have fun and enjoy getting to know each other! Don't take things too seriously upfront. Keep things light, be silly and playful together. Look for small ways to make everyday moments fun. Dating should feel joyful, not stressful. Focus on nurturing that special spark between you.

If you focus on truly understanding her interests, planning creative dates, communicating openly, respecting her boundaries and simply enjoying your time together, you’re sure to build an amazing foundation. Wishing you so much happiness as you start this exciting journey! Let me know if any other relationship questions come up. I'm happy to offer you more detailed advice!