10 Old-Fashioned Dating Advice That Applies Today

Dating has changed a lot since the “good ol’ days,” whatever that phrase may mean to you. Dating today includes things like text messages, dating websites and apps, and social media in all of its varied forms. Though dating may have seemed more simple back in the day, there are pros and cons to dating now versus dating back then. So here are some Dating Advice for all those who want to fall in love and get to know how it all works!

Old-Fashioned Dating Advice Which Never Goes Out Of Fashion

Some of the dating advice from previous generations is outdated and even borderline offensive, however some of it is actually helpful to today’s daters.

1. Listen Up

In 1943’s Sex Today in Wedded Life, author Edward Podolsky advised that people listen to each other. Specifically speaking to women, Podolsky wrote,

“Let him tell you his troubles; yours will seem trivial in comparison.”

Though the latter part of the quote is not really applicable, it does really help to listen to other people’s problems rather than dwell on your own—especially your partner’s.

2. Take It Slow

Though we are less inclined to move slowly in this fast-paced internet era, taking a relationship slow is always a good idea. Spend time getting to know one another, actually go on dates instead of “hang outs,” speak to one another with your voices rather than via text messages. Back in the day, people went on dates and did not have constant access to their phones or computers, which arguably heightened romance. Though it is nearly impossible to leave your phone out of the relationship today, taking it slow is a manageable feat. Just remember,

If it is right, it will happen. The main thing is not to hurry. Remember nothing good gets away! -John Stienbeck (Tweet this)

3. Open The Car Door

Yes, all men and women are perfectly capable of opening their own car door, but there is something romantic about the “back in the day” approach to dating. Just because you are a man does not mean you have to open a woman’s door, but it also doesn’t mean you cannot.

Chivalry is not dead! Ladies are more than welcome to open their date’s car door as well.

It would make for a clever twist!

4. Knock On His/Her Door

Similarly to the opening of the car door, is there anything better than someone who will knock on your door rather than send an, “I’m here” text message? Coming to someone’s door is old-fashioned, but very respectful. Don’t be too shy to knock on someone’s door, even if they have roommates. The gesture will be much appreciated.

5. Write A Love Letter

Cute text messages are wonderful. Public Facebook posts are adorable and will let everyone know how you feel about your partner. Tweets and sweet Instagram dedication posts are great as well, but what is really missing these days is the good ol’ love letter. Writing your partner a love letter is old-fashioned and so, so sweet. It is a shame that we do not always know what our partner’s handwriting looks like these days. Write your love out.

Handwritten love letters will never go out of style. -Anonymous (Tweet this)

6. Offer To Pay For Dinner

Now this “rule” is a hot topic, but it is one worth covering. If you two are in a committed relationship and you have a deal about splitting the tab and/or alternating who pays, don’t worry about offering to pay every time you two do something out in public. If this is your first or second date, whoever asked for the date should offer to pay. You two can work out the details later, but if you suggested the date, you should offer to pay. Of course some women prefer the gentleman to pay, but times have changed quite a bit since it was a bonafide dating rule. There is a beautiful saying that is so apt for this topic which goes like,

When I invite a woman to dinner, I expect her to look at my face. That is the only price which she has to pay. -George.S.Kaufman (Tweet this)

7. Date During The Daytime

If you two have been dating for awhile, make sure you incorporate some earlier dates into your routine. People that only want to go on a date at night, or even later than the night (late night drinks, for instance) are not necessarily making the best impression. You deserve someone who wants to have a picnic in the park as well as a late movie.

8. Watch For Body Language

Though people have changed their social rules throughout the years, body language is a natural part of life—something that cannot be changed as easily. Look for telltale signs like folded arms (not a great sign), playing with their hair, feet pointed toward one another, and strong eye contact. The body language on a date makes for great signs that your partner is interested in you, either physically or otherwise—hopefully both!

9. Honesty Is The Best Policy

Another tried and true rule is about honesty. It doesn’t matter if it is 1955 or 2015 or 2035, being honest will always be the best life choice—in all of your relationships. People who refuse to be honest with one another are only setting themselves up for heartbreak.

Even if you have a hard time admitting something or being vulnerable with your partner, push past your discomfort and you will be making your relationship stronger. You can do it.

10. You Can Kiss A Few Frogs . . .

Like the old story goes, sometimes you have to kiss a few frogs to find your prince. Arguably now more than ever, it is hard to find a relationship that is worth waiting for. We date much less based on geographical convenience these days—something that the internet has definitely contributed to. There is nothing wrong with dating around until you find “the one,” or at least “the one” you want to be with for awhile. Dating is hard—always has been—and waiting for the one is always worth your time.

Final Thoughts On Old-Fashioned Dating Advice

Dating has never been easy, and I am willing to bet that it never will be. The most important dating advice I want to give you is to remember when you are out in the dating world is to follow your heart. Be strong, don’t compromise your values, and remember that there is someone for everyone.