Dating has changed over the years, and a lot of the traditional values of dating have faded into the past. Many of these traditions were typical of dating years ago, some even before many of us were even born. This means that many people have never experienced dating from this perspective, while others may remember these dating days of old. There are definitely some benefits to new-age dating, but we have lost some of the advantages that came with older, traditional style dating as well. If you are interested to find out how this throwback approach could improve your relationship, check out these 8 old-fashioned dating habits we should bring back for a better love life.
Getting picked up for a date at your door
In today’s dating realm, people typically meet at whatever location their date will take place. But back in the day, it was standard practice for a guy to pick a woman up at her house, even going to her front door to ring the doorbell. There was a certain kind of effort and intention behind this act that is missing in many interactions today.
Bringing a small gift to a date
It used to be pretty common for guys to bring a small gift to dates. It does not have to be a super expensive or flashy gift but could be something simple and meaningful. A common gift was a single rose, which is so romantic in its simplicity. A small token of appreciation can go a long way.
Dressing nice for your date
Casual has become the norm in many dating arenas, with people showing up in jeans and t-shirts, or even sweats. While this is nice to be accepted regardless of how you dress, wearing nice clothes to a date expresses interest and care for the outcome of the occasion.
Going on real dates
Back in the day, people went on real dates that required planning and thought. Today, dates are many times something as casual as a “Netflix and Chill” situation. This is cool and relaxed, but again – planning a date shows effort to your love interest.
Being a real gentleman
Chivalry is somewhat a thing of the past between many couples. But this is what chivalrous acts even more impactful in today’s dating scene. Guaranteed, many women have never had their car door opened for them or chairs pulled for them at dinner. These simple acts express so much care and nurturing.
Giving them your undivided attention
This is not even that old of a concept. If you can remember back to the days when cell phones were still a novelty, it was a general understanding that being on your phone while spending time with someone was quite rude. But we have all gotten so accustomed to having our heads buried in devices, it is pretty common to ignore the real person in your presence and give your attention to strangers on social media. Let’s bring back the thoughtfulness and intentionality of giving our love interest’s undivided attention.
Having fewer expectations of physical intimacy
In a previous dating era, there were plenty of people who had rules about being intimate only after a certain amount of time. If you retrace time back far enough, many people were not physically intimate until marriage. This is not to cast shame on being intimate at whatever stage you are comfortable – it is merely to highlight that sex and physical contact can cloud judgment and distort real connection. It also can lead to inauthentic experiences if a guy is only trying to have sex by the end of the date.
Making your intentions known
In the old days of dating, there was the concept of “courting.” This was when a man made it known that he was interested in a woman for the potential of marriage, and pursued her with this intent. It may not be necessary to bring back this habit with such formality, but letting someone know what your desires and intentions are in regards to them is a very healthy and beneficial form of communication in dating.
