Just recently I spent the better portion of my afternoon with a close confidante of mine discussing relationships, dating, and the many mysteries that intertwine the two. So many confusing principles and rules surround the puzzling world of dating, it is sometimes difficult to decipher between whether or not you are actually a player in the grand game of “dating/single”.
One principle in particular came to mind while conversing over these mysterious rules we subconsciously abide by when seeking a mate: “the principle of least interest”. Although I would like to assume credit for labeling this “dating principle,” I must submit the copyright to the particular individual I was bothering in order to seek a topic for my weekly column. This principle can be best defined as: the means in which two individuals attempting to pursue a possible romantic relationship submit all of their energies entirely to persuading the other that they are not the least bit interested or bothered by the possibility of dating them.
Seems like a rather twisted rule to assume when attempting to pursue someone romantically but then again, I often find myself a team player in this aspect of the game.
Along with this topic regarding dating are a number of subtopics, which allow for further explanation and detail in how this principle should be exerted.
Rule #1: When you are introduced, make no attempts to display any sort of friendly or excited emotion towards the individual. If caught doing so may result in the other deducting your interest and cause them to beat you at your own game, ignoring you and therefore leaving you without the upper hand.
Rule #2: If the night proceeds with casual conversation and slight flirting (only leaving enough to arouse a trivial amount of interest from the other), then it is permissible to accept a phone number. The trick to remaining with the upper hand in the “principle of least interest” is to abide by the “Three Day Rule”. This rule states that one must wait at least three full days before attempting to contact the person whom you received the phone number from. Once you have completed your phone call the conversation must last no longer than five to 10 minutes and consist of making no permanent future plans.
Rule #3: If by chance you “coincidentally” meet up with your “completely platonic friend,” slight contact is permitted throughout the night. Normally if beverages allow, you may allow your hormones to take place of your common sense (if this did not occur the first time). Now that the game has become more serious you must make no attempt to call and pursue another meeting. However if you are in contact with one of his or her friends then it is permissible to inquire where they will be the next Thursday night.