Other sites like Tinder, Bumble, and Grindr are fine, but they only match you up based on age range and location. This tends to lead to more casual flings.

Going out with a friend of a friend is also safer than meeting up with a stranger. Since you know someone who knows them, you can be fairly certain that they are who they say they are.

If you really value family and want to be a stay at home parent, look for a man who wants to be the breadwinner in the relationship.

Studies also show that once men reach age 38, their commitment levels severely decrease. Again, it’s not impossible, but it is more unlikely.

For instance, you’ll want to avoid talking about marriage or kids on the first few dates. Save the “What are we?” talk until you’ve been seeing each other for a few weeks (or even months). You may also want to take things slow physically, too. Having sex too quickly can make your man think you’re only in it for the hookup.

Let’s say your car breaks down, and now you have to bike everywhere. Instead of complaining about it, you might say, “Well, at least I get to enjoy the sunshine!”

This is also a good way to ensure you aren’t moving too quickly. If he saves the “What are we?” conversation for a few months down the line, then try to be okay with a casual thing for now.

Car is in the shop? Tell him about it, then accept his offer to give you a ride to work. Not feeling well? Shoot him a text, then say thank you when he offers to bring you soup. You can accept his offers for favors, but try not to overdo it. If you ask him for something new every week, he might feel taken advantage of.

You can subtly tell him about the fun stuff you’re doing by saying things like, “Let’s hang out on Friday! I have plans with my friends on Saturday, so I want to see you before then. ” Or, tell him all about the new hobby you picked up by saying, “I’d love to show you my new rock climbing skills! I’ve been taking lessons for the past few months. ”

In general, men are very visual creatures. You can catch someone’s attention while you’re out and about by holding your head high and being the most confident person in the room.

Your timeline can be personalized to your own needs. You might say that you want to be exclusive within 3 months, or have the “What are we?” conversation within 10 dates.