When all else fails, author Evan Marc Katz suggests struggling daters ask previous dates to critique their dating habits, exit-interview-style, to gain insight into behavior that may be off-putting to others and to see if they can spot troubling patterns. Admittedly not an activity for the faint of heart but for the brave, a potential well-spring of info. Or… ah… terror and ever-lasting anxiety.

 

1. Was it something I said?

People can agree to disagree but if the conversation involved religion or politics, danger could rear its ugly head

 

2. Was it something I did?

It may not be your fault that you didn't channel your inner Kreskin and read their minds, but it's a good thing to know moving forward if that's the problem.

 

3. Did I annoy you?

That all depends, of course, at the number of times you laughed inappropriately at her/his serious comments.

 

4. Did I not acknowledge something?

Take heed if you failed to compliment your date on their appearance, especially if they got all gussied up just for you and you failed to notice.

 

5. Did I talk about myself too much?

Maybe he/she didn't need to know about last year's gender-reassignment operation.

 

6. Did I talk about myself too little?

If there are long periods of silence between bites and your date is constantly glancing at their watch, then the chances are... yes.

 

7. Did I inquire enough about you?

You'll find out soon enough. There will be a quiz.

 

8. Were you pleased with my appearance?

Or was he/she more pleased with your disappearance following the date? Bada-boom!