Spending time with a girl gives you the chance to really know her. The more time you spend with her, for example, the better idea you have of what she is like when she is mad, stressed, upset, or happy. You’ll know what she likes to do for fun and what dreams and desires she has.
Over time, you may find there are things that you really admire and appreciate in your girlfriend. Or you may find that as you get to know her better, there are certain things that you don’t like or approve of. In other words, after a certain period of time, you know enough about yourself and about her to determine if you would like to stay in the relationship.
Things to do. While you’re still in the “getting to know you” stage, you don’t have to go out on formal dates all the time. You can see each other when you get together with friends or just hang out with each other. Some informal dates can include the following:
Who pays? In the beginning of a dating relationship, the person who did the asking out should cover the costs of the date. But after you have been going out together for a while, it’s okay to talk about who pays for dates that are expensive. Seeing movies or going to concerts can cost a lot. Let her know if things are getting too expensive for you. Maybe she’ll offer to pay for tickets. Make sure you have enough money on you to cover likely expenses before you go out on a date.
“It doesn’t matter if the guy is perfect or the girl is perfect, as long as they are perfect for each other.”
—from the 1997 film Good Will Hunting
Make her feel special. If you have been together for a while, you may want to show her that you really appreciate her. There are a lot of little ways you can share your romantic feelings.
You could play music that reminds you both of your first dance together or your first date. A lot of couples will have a special song that they refer to as “Our Song” whenever they hear it played.
When your girlfriend is upset about something, be there to give her a hug and a shoulder to cry on. You don’t really need to say anything at all. Just let her know you’ll be around when she’s feeling down.
During the year, remember the monthly anniversary of your first date. Write a note, send a card, give her chocolates, or pick some flowers and present her with the bouquet. Make sure not to forget her birthday and the big one-year anniversary.
If she gets sick, come by for a visit with a big get-well card that all your friends signed. You could also bring a big balloon or some flowers. It will make her feel so much better to know that you care.
Here are some silly one-liners that will make her smile:
“Are you tired? Because you’ve been running through my mind all day.”
“If I were to rearrange the alphabet, I would put U and I together.”
“Help, something’s wrong with my eyes! I just can’t take mine off you.”
“You’re like a dictionary—you add meaning to my life!”
“Do you have a map? ‘Cause I just got lost in your eyes.”