Dating as a concept is so interesting because there aren't any concrete rules. It's up to personal preference, capacity and lifestyle. I feel like you have to date someone who aligns with you in some way, or is fluid enough, on those things.

I just know that open communication about needs and expectations from the beginning is key so that everyone in the situation knows what's what. It leaves less room for wasted time and energy, maybe.

What works for me may not work for you. Hell, what worked for me a couple years ago may not work for me today.

I also think that people lie to themselves about what they can handle or what they want. It's important to know yourself as deeply as possible — if you don't know you or what you need, how can anyone truly know?

And needs/wants can change when in any kind of relationship based on circumstance and other things. I think that's okay, but communication needs to be a big thing so that emotional trust doesn't decrease.

I think temperature checks, in any relationship, are important - even when things are going well. Every so often, check in on an emotional level to make sure things are being attended to in the way that both people expect them to. No assumptions.

Leave room for mistakes, lessons and growth. But be honest, emotionally open and communicative.