CRUSHES

Along with academic and lifestyle resolutions, you’re probably thinking about how you want to change up your dating life in the new year as well. Whether you had some bad luck in love throughout 2016 or you want to land your first BF, add these seven tips to your list of New Year’s resolution to ensure your 2017 love life is simple, sweet and smoochy.

1. Don’t stalk—talk!

Even though stalking your crush’s (and his ex’s) Insta, Twitter and FB may make you *think* you now know absolutely everything about him, you don't, girl. You're just seeing the snippets of his life that he's chosen to show. It’s a better idea to just say hi after class and start up a real life conversation. Let him fall in love with the *real* you, and not just with those carefully timed likes on his selfies.

2. Let go of the past.

Sure, you’ve made a couple dating mistakes—we've all been there before. While you don’t have to forget the past, *do* put it aside by forgiving whomever you need to forgive so that you can start 2017 with a fresh slate. You’ll allow yourself to have so many more fun and life changing opportunities than if you just dwelled on the past.

3. Sisters before misters.

Your crush invited you to a study sesh at his place, but your best friend just got dumped and *needs* you. Girl, you know what you’ve gotta do! Head over to your bestie's place ASAP, and send your (hopefully understanding) bae a text to reschedule. Remember: it’s your responsibility as a friend to be there for your girls when they needs help, just like they'll be your support system when you’re going through a tough time.

4. Stop overthinking!

There’s no need to overthink every small text message; it only causes unnecessary stress. If your boyfriend cancels a date, calmly ask if you can reschedule instead of having a total freakout sesh and avoiding all contact with him. Simplify your life by taking things as they are and not trying to brainstorm a hundred possible underlying meanings for his “K.” text.

5. Date when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely.

It’s not fair to you or your boo if you’re only dating to have someone to fill a void and show off on social media. Those kinds of superficial relationships have zero benefits and are super toxic in the long run. Instead, make time to move on from a past relationship—that way you can make sure you’re ready to take on a new one as your best self.

6. Don’t play hard to get.

Sending mixed signals is never a good idea. It can backfire, leading your crush (or worse, your BF) to think you’re not interested. Forget all those rules about texting back a few minutes later or acting uninterested. Instead, be straightforward about your feelings and don’t play games.

7. Make sure to love yourself first.

Before you make room for another person in your life, make sure that you are confident and happy with who you are. Delve deep into your passions, take care of your body and work hard at everything you do. When you’re living your best life, that’s when it’s time to let someone else in so that they can enjoy it with you!

What dating resolution will you be making for 2017? Let us know in the comments below.

Photo credit: Giphy

by GL | 12/24/2016