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Why can’t I find someone with all the qualities I am looking for?
You are only looking for the one person – just one! – and you cannot find someone with all the qualities you are hoping for. Perhaps you find most of the features, but never all of them.
What it means to be married – basics.
What does it mean to be married, besides not being single? Successful dating leads to marriage, and marriage can’t be done just any other way. It needs to be done right. There are some fundamental principles that are at the heart of what it means to be married. Here are some of the most important ideas for you to consider as you contemplate your future.
What is “attachment” and why is this so important for romantic relationships?
“Attachment” is a fascinating and complex matter, and the consequences are enormous for people’s experience of entering into a relationship and how their fair once married. In fact, the issue of attachment may be the single most central and important factor in the quality and success of people’s relationships.
What Are You Committing To? Some pointers for discussion
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to developing a meaningful emotional connection and do not want to take the relationship in a serious direction. Often this is because of an ambivalent relationship orientation. They want the closeness, but they are not ready to be tied down. So they treat dating like a game. You can tell a player by the very dramatic gap between their nice manner and their dismissive attitude towards the relationship.
We have different religious levels, is this a problem?
More than the exact differences of your religiosity levels is the ‘what’ and ‘who’. What are the differences; are they major or minor? Who are each of you; how flexible are each of you?
The person has a psychological illness – should I consider it?
The question of whether to consider dating or marrying someone who has a psychological problem is one of the most difficult relationship matters. The consequences could be enormous, and there is also a great deal of confusion and fear surrounding this issue. The purpose of this article is to offer some clarity to help you to make a thoughtful decision as to what is in your best interest.
The Five Fundamentals – The factors most important to look for in a spouse.
When dating, it is so important to put most of your focus on “the fundamentals,” the absolutely most core parts of a person’s character.
Preconditions for dating
For a dating to go well, you need to be present and focused. If you are over-tired, exhausted, or distracted, the date can fall flat. If possible, it is best to begin dating when you are willing and able to apply the necessary time, energy, and clear mind to the project.
Never settle for “second best”.
You may reprioritize on some things you thought were important, but always make sure your spouse has your essential requirements. Dropping the insistence on unimportant preferences is perfectly okay, but do not abandon your truest priorities because it will mean you don’t have to date anymore.
Knowing yourself, so that you know who to marry
People are often encouraged to make a list of criteria to guide the search process. Without question, this is necessary and important, because how else can someone know who may be suitable for you.
Why can’t I find someone with all the qualities I am looking for?
You are only looking for the one person – just one! – and you cannot
What it means to be married – basics.
What does it mean to be married, besides not being single? Successful dating leads to
What is “attachment” and why is this so important for romantic relationships?
“Attachment” is a fascinating and complex matter, and the consequences are enormous for people’s experience
What Are You Committing To? Some pointers for discussion
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to
We have different religious levels, is this a problem?
More than the exact differences of your religiosity levels is the ‘what’ and ‘who’. What
The person has a psychological illness – should I consider it?
The question of whether to consider dating or marrying someone who has a psychological problem
The Five Fundamentals – The factors most important to look for in a spouse.
When dating, it is so important to put most of your focus on “the fundamentals,”
Never settle for “second best”.
You may reprioritize on some things you thought were important, but always make sure your
Knowing yourself, so that you know who to marry
People are often encouraged to make a list of criteria to guide the search process.
Working with the Shadchan to find shidduch
A Shadchan’s job is not easy. They are tasked to find someone you will like, when they are not you. Here are a range of useful tips as to work together with the shadchan is as productive a manner as possible.
Why the first few dates are so important.
There are people who struggle with the very first dates. The communication skills for the first dates are different than most other communication; and some people find this difficult. These skills can be learned.
When dating does not work out, I take rejection very personally.
It would be easy to just say not to take it personally, but if only it were that simple. The urge for a romantic bond is deeply hard-wired into our brains. For this reason, some people experience rejection not merely as a (sometimes bitter) disappointment, but a very personal attack on their value as a human being. Here are key points to help you respond most constructively to this distressing feeling.
What to do on a date?
Here are some activities that people have done during dating. The idea is not only to have a nice time together but to get to know each other from a different angle. Doing such activities together can give you insight that cannot be gleaned from conversations.
The dating process explained.
Dating can take two strangers who just recently had never even heard of each other, to become inseparable. Two people who have never met now want to spend the rest of their lives together.
This does not happen in one leap. The dating pair go through several stages in the process, even if the time duration can be quite short. Each stage involves different skills and can be faced with different issues. Those are usually skills and issues that the people involved have never been faced with in any other area of their lives.
The ‘Twenty Percent’
Some people are just going to find a key aspect of dating persistently difficult. They can be just as successful in dating and marriage, but they are going to need to work to their strengths and take a path that makes sense for them.
Should They Continue or Should They Quit?
When after a few good dates, one or both parties feel that it is not going anywhere, the question arises whether to keep going or quit. It is important to recognize that there is, in reality, a third option: helping those dating to become unstuck?
Often there is an entirely comprehensible reason why things are stuck, and in most such cases it is possible to get around the issue. Most of the issues can be overcome through a basic level of self-awareness combined with acquiring some modest new dating or relationship building skills. We would help many people if we offer daters access to timely input.
Questions to Ask a Reference About a Prospective Date
Your research should provide enough information to determine if the shidduch has some potential. The people date to really find out about each other.
The information uncovered during the research should never be relied on 100%. Everything must be confirmed during the dating process.
Push vs pull: A common hidden factor in attraction
People typically don’t question or even contemplate the reasons for their motivation. But what if some people are unaware that they are being hugely impacted by the way their struggle to overcome their internal barriers – difficulty connecting, issues with trust, fear of commitment – affects them? Without being conscious of it, they are seeking to date people who they find highly appealing in a particular way, not simply because that’s what they find desirable, but also because they feel that enables them to generate sufficient motivation to overcome their inner struggles. The purpose of this article is to explain how this works. It can transform the way you think about your choices, by better understand where those preferences are coming from.
Profiles, Resumes, Reference Sheets
A resume/ profile highlights information about you. It is basically a snapshot of you. And it includes references.
Working with the Shadchan to find shidduch
A Shadchan’s job is not easy. They are tasked to find someone you will like,
Why the first few dates are so important.
There are people who struggle with the very first dates. The communication skills for the
When dating does not work out, I take rejection very personally.
It would be easy to just say not to take it personally, but if only
What to do on a date?
Here are some activities that people have done during dating. The idea is not only
The dating process explained.
Dating can take two strangers who just recently had never even heard of each other,
The ‘Twenty Percent’
Some people are just going to find a key aspect of dating persistently difficult. They
Should They Continue or Should They Quit?
When after a few good dates, one or both parties feel that it is not
Questions to Ask a Reference About a Prospective Date
Your research should provide enough information to determine if the shidduch has some
Push vs pull: A common hidden factor in attraction
People typically don’t question or even contemplate the reasons for their motivation. But what if
Profiles, Resumes, Reference Sheets
A resume/ profile highlights information about you. It is basically a snapshot of you. And
What people with strong personalities need to understand
If you have a strong personality, you don’t have to change (and really, you can’t change). You do need to recognize how others perceive you, and perhaps adopt more moderately adjusted behaviors – especially when dating.
The person I am dating has an anger issue, what should I do?
There are two types of anger issues – and they are worlds apart. The first type is common among feisty people. However, sadly there is an abnormal type of anger problem we shall call rage. Someone with a rage problem has a mental illness.
The dating process explained.
Dating can take two strangers who just recently had never even heard of each other, to become inseparable. Two people who have never met now want to spend the rest of their lives together.
This does not happen in one leap. The dating pair go through several stages in the process, even if the time duration can be quite short. Each stage involves different skills and can be faced with different issues. Those are usually skills and issues that the people involved have never been faced with in any other area of their lives.
I have sensitive information to reveal: how can I do this while causing least damage?
It would be more advisable to give off a more realistic portrayal of life from the outset, and weave into that the factors that will make your weakness seem less threatening. You can provide context of your life that will make it easy for your date to see how you deal with and manage your issue.
I am painfully quiet and find dating worrying and challenging.
Dating can leave some people feeling nervous, anxious, and worried. This impedes the dating process and makes it harder for both parties. The good news is that it is much less frightening than it seems.
How to give great compliments.
An authentic comment will come across as meaningful, memorable, and make the person feel special. A good compliment is genuine, full, specific and unique.
How to be more interesting.
When you have an interesting life, you will have so much more to speak about, and you’ll come across as an interesting person. Your dates will be more engaging and meaningful.
How being bullied affects dating.
The victim of bullying may find dating more difficult, and the one dating them will also be affected. There are two main effects of bullying: insecurity and unconfidence. Both impact dating.
When someone is insecure and lacking self-confidence, they keep their guard up; they are defensive and afraid to be vulnerable. They are afraid to trust others. This holds them back from sharing about themselves and building a relationship. They often lack the courage to make big steps, like getting into a relationship.
If your fears and anxieties are coming from events in your past, you must do everything possible to not let that harm your present and destroy your future.
If you see that you are struggling, it is important that you get input from someone with an understanding of effective dating. You may benefit from guidance from a dating coach or a wise shadchan.
How and why anxiety can get the better of you in dating.
We would all like to be relaxed and in control, but sometimes people get caught up in worries that lead to behaviors that others find challenging and which end up producing poor results.
Do I have to tell my date problematic things I have done in the past?
Guilt is a healthy response as a reaction to the past, yet it is a dysfunctional response to our posture for the future. If you have done things you should be ashamed of, not feeling guilt would be a bad thing. But if the guilt is undermining your confidence in your ability to move forward in your life, it is a really bad thing.
What people with strong personalities need to understand
If you have a strong personality, you don’t have to change (and really, you can’t
The person I am dating has an anger issue, what should I do?
There are two types of anger issues – and they are worlds apart. The first
The dating process explained.
Dating can take two strangers who just recently had never even heard of each other,
I have sensitive information to reveal: how can I do this while causing least damage?
It would be more advisable to give off a more realistic portrayal of life from
I am painfully quiet and find dating worrying and challenging.
Dating can leave some people feeling nervous, anxious, and worried. This impedes the dating process and
How to give great compliments.
An authentic comment will come across as meaningful, memorable, and make the person feel special.
How to be more interesting.
When you have an interesting life, you will have so much more to speak about,
How being bullied affects dating.
The victim of bullying may find dating more difficult, and the one dating them will
How and why anxiety can get the better of you in dating.
We would all like to be relaxed and in control, but sometimes people get caught
Do I have to tell my date problematic things I have done in the past?
Guilt is a healthy response as a reaction to the past, yet it is a
You may be an idiot, but there is no obligation to show it!
“Being yourself” is highly overrated during the early stages of dating. Better advice would be to “act your best self.” Before you have established trust and closeness, it is best not to pull out your silliness.
Why the first few dates are so important.
There are people who struggle with the very first dates. The communication skills for the first dates are different than most other communication; and some people find this difficult. These skills can be learned.
We have different religious levels, is this a problem?
More than the exact differences of your religiosity levels is the ‘what’ and ‘who’. What are the differences; are they major or minor? Who are each of you; how flexible are each of you?
The person I am dating seems to think only about himself. Should I get out?
To make things simple, we divide this beahvior into three categories and reflect on each. They are: 1) selfish, 2) mildly narcissistic, 3) acutely narcissistic.
The person I am dating has an anger issue, what should I do?
There are two types of anger issues – and they are worlds apart. The first type is common among feisty people. However, sadly there is an abnormal type of anger problem we shall call rage. Someone with a rage problem has a mental illness.
The person has a psychological illness – should I consider it?
The question of whether to consider dating or marrying someone who has a psychological problem is one of the most difficult relationship matters. The consequences could be enormous, and there is also a great deal of confusion and fear surrounding this issue. The purpose of this article is to offer some clarity to help you to make a thoughtful decision as to what is in your best interest.
The Five Fundamentals – The factors most important to look for in a spouse.
When dating, it is so important to put most of your focus on “the fundamentals,” the absolutely most core parts of a person’s character.
Should I take a break?
There are unique situations when a break would be helpful. The first is what we term a Feelings Break, when you find there is strong compatibility but you feel that you don’t have a sufficient emotional connection. A break may allow you to see whether there is a flicker of connection upon which to build. The second we call a Thinking Break, when you have strong feelings towards your dating partner but are facing a major decision and feel that it should not be clouded by the growing emotional bond. If a break is warranted, it must be broached with the utmost sensitivity and maturity.
Recognizing narcissistic tendencies.
A central feature of marriage is the ability and willingness to give and share. Some people find that difficult, and focus mostly on their own needs and wishes. Dr Elinor Greenberg sets out the main characteristics of narcissism, and how you can identify narcissistic tendencies.
Recognizing controlling tendencies.
Controlling behavior is when one person expects, compels, or requires others to cater to their own needs — even at others’ expense. Generally, people are on their best behavior during dating. So it is especially important to really tune in and pay attention to the following questions during the dating. There are RED FLAGS of controlling tendencies.
You may be an idiot, but there is no obligation to show it!
“Being yourself” is highly overrated during the early stages of dating. Better advice would be
Why the first few dates are so important.
There are people who struggle with the very first dates. The communication skills for the
We have different religious levels, is this a problem?
More than the exact differences of your religiosity levels is the ‘what’ and ‘who’. What
The person I am dating seems to think only about himself. Should I get out?
To make things simple, we divide this beahvior into three categories and reflect on each.
The person I am dating has an anger issue, what should I do?
There are two types of anger issues – and they are worlds apart. The first
Why am I not ‘falling in love’?
Some people don’t fall in love, rather they grow in love. And so, their dating experience and path to marriage is different from most. They won’t be getting those butterflies or heady feelings that many get. Still, they can ‘know’ that this person is a great marriage partner.
Should They Continue or Should They Quit?
When after a few good dates, one or both parties feel that it is not going anywhere, the question arises whether to keep going or quit. It is important to recognize that there is, in reality, a third option: helping those dating to become unstuck?
Often there is an entirely comprehensible reason why things are stuck, and in most such cases it is possible to get around the issue. Most of the issues can be overcome through a basic level of self-awareness combined with acquiring some modest new dating or relationship building skills. We would help many people if we offer daters access to timely input.
Know the difference between love and infatuation.
A relationship based on love is likely to stand the test of time; one based on infatuation won’t last. Love and infatuation can feel very similar. Make sure that what you have is (the beginnings of) real love, not infatuation.
Love comes from shared values and a common vision, along with a meaningful knowledge of and connection with another. Infatuation is based on heady chemistry, excitement about all the attention, and physical attraction.
Is it true that opposites attract?
Being “opposite” is mostly not an advantage when it comes to relationships, with the exception of certain combinations of personality, especially strength and warmth of personality. A decent level of similarity is essential when it comes to most other aspects of personality, such as kindness and work ethic. When it comes to values, similarity is important, and the greater the convergence the better. When it comes to personal features, difference is not ever a plus, but most of the time they are easy areas for compromise.
I really care for her, so why can’t I feel that passionate love?
You might be hoping that if you develop feelings towards, then your doubts will vanish. But it is your doubts that are making the chances of feeling love improbable. Go through the issues you have one by one and see if they really are deal-breakers. If they are not, you have to be willing to let them all go and start to “get in the moment.” You will see things change quite dramatically.
I feel very strongly drawn to my date, but some things bother me.
If you have been dating for a while, and have learned the hard way that it is not easy to find someone who truly works for you, then you need to be focused on what really matters. Perhaps all people would do well to be clear about their priorities and not allow relatively minor issues to dampen enthusiasm for a promising relationship.
I am looking for my soulmate; how do I know when I have found it?
When people speak about finding their soulmate, they generally mean one of two things. For some people it means looking for someone with whom they can have a deeper connection. Others, though, are searching for someone who can be their “everything” – and that can become a problem.
That person is not your soulmate because you are identical in every way, but because when together both of your souls thrive and flourish.
How can I be confident that I am marrying the right person?
What is most important for a marriage? A couple needs to be compatible when it comes to personality and values, but can sustain much great divergence when it comes to personal features.
How being bullied affects dating.
The victim of bullying may find dating more difficult, and the one dating them will also be affected. There are two main effects of bullying: insecurity and unconfidence. Both impact dating.
When someone is insecure and lacking self-confidence, they keep their guard up; they are defensive and afraid to be vulnerable. They are afraid to trust others. This holds them back from sharing about themselves and building a relationship. They often lack the courage to make big steps, like getting into a relationship.
If your fears and anxieties are coming from events in your past, you must do everything possible to not let that harm your present and destroy your future.
If you see that you are struggling, it is important that you get input from someone with an understanding of effective dating. You may benefit from guidance from a dating coach or a wise shadchan.
He says “I am not ready, let’s continue dating”. Should I agree?
Where is the request to continue the dating process coming from? Has overall compatibility been established? What do they say they need clarity on?
Especially important Is to be clear between the two of you as to what kind of clarity is to be gained during the next dates.
Set a goal and a timeframe. Not an ultimatum. Don’t pressure.
Sometimes, people get stuck. It is worthwhile to get professional support in making a decision.
Why am I not ‘falling in love’?
Some people don’t fall in love, rather they grow in love. And so, their dating
Should They Continue or Should They Quit?
When after a few good dates, one or both parties feel that it is not
Know the difference between love and infatuation.
A relationship based on love is likely to stand the test of time; one based
Is it true that opposites attract?
Being “opposite” is mostly not an advantage when it comes to relationships, with the exception
I really care for her, so why can’t I feel that passionate love?
You might be hoping that if you develop feelings towards, then your doubts will vanish.
I feel very strongly drawn to my date, but some things bother me.
If you have been dating for a while, and have learned the hard way that
I am looking for my soulmate; how do I know when I have found it?
When people speak about finding their soulmate, they generally mean one of two things. For
How can I be confident that I am marrying the right person?
What is most important for a marriage? A couple needs to be compatible when
How being bullied affects dating.
The victim of bullying may find dating more difficult, and the one dating them will
He says “I am not ready, let’s continue dating”. Should I agree?
Where is the request to continue the dating process coming from? Has overall compatibility been
What Are You Committing To? Some pointers for discussion
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to developing a meaningful emotional connection and do not want to take the relationship in a serious direction. Often this is because of an ambivalent relationship orientation. They want the closeness, but they are not ready to be tied down. So they treat dating like a game. You can tell a player by the very dramatic gap between their nice manner and their dismissive attitude towards the relationship.
Player Syndrome: How dating can be too much about fun.
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to developing a meaningful emotional connection and do not want to take the relationship in a serious direction. Often this is because of an ambivalent relationship orientation. They want the closeness, but they are not ready to be tied down. So they treat dating like a game. You can tell a player by the very dramatic gap between their nice manner and their dismissive attitude towards the relationship.
I feel very strongly drawn to my date, but some things bother me.
If you have been dating for a while, and have learned the hard way that it is not easy to find someone who truly works for you, then you need to be focused on what really matters. Perhaps all people would do well to be clear about their priorities and not allow relatively minor issues to dampen enthusiasm for a promising relationship.
I am looking for my soulmate; how do I know when I have found it?
When people speak about finding their soulmate, they generally mean one of two things. For some people it means looking for someone with whom they can have a deeper connection. Others, though, are searching for someone who can be their “everything” – and that can become a problem.
That person is not your soulmate because you are identical in every way, but because when together both of your souls thrive and flourish.
Before committing to marriage – for women
When making the decision to commit to marriage, think with your head and not only with your heart. Before committing to marriage, THINK about these aspects of your relationship. And substantiate with examples and anecdotes.
Before committing to marriage – for men
When making the decision to commit to marriage, think with your head and not only with your heart. Before committing to marriage, THINK about these aspects of your relationship. And substantiate with examples and anecdotes.
Are you afraid of getting close?
Some people are fine dating. Everything generally goes great. They are confident, at ease, engaging, open – until the point where the dating turns “serious.” As soon as they sense that they have crossed over into “commitment territory,” all kinds of strange things start happening.
“I like the person I am dating, but I find other people much prettier/smarter.”
Sometimes, a man sees a woman that he finds particularly attractive and cannot help himself comparing her more favorably to the woman he is dating or is married to. It is important that he take a broader view and recognize that it is highly unlikely that it can become a successful marriage.
What Are You Committing To? Some pointers for discussion
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to
Player Syndrome: How dating can be too much about fun.
Some people treat dating only or mostly as a game, and seem resistant to
I feel very strongly drawn to my date, but some things bother me.
If you have been dating for a while, and have learned the hard way that
I am looking for my soulmate; how do I know when I have found it?
When people speak about finding their soulmate, they generally mean one of two things. For
Before committing to marriage – for women
When making the decision to commit to marriage, think with your head and not only
Before committing to marriage – for men
When making the decision to commit to marriage, think with your head and not only
Are you afraid of getting close?
Some people are fine dating. Everything generally goes great. They are confident, at ease, engaging,
“I like the person I am dating, but I find other people much prettier/smarter.”
Sometimes, a man sees a woman that he finds particularly attractive and cannot help himself