Speaking as someone who wears her heart on her sleeve, I feel safe in saying that it's kind of hard to date when your feelings and emotions are right there. People can take advantage, others are scared, and each rejection stings. It's so common to take things personally, and it doesn't help that developing a thick skin isn't the easiest thing in the world, either. If you wear your heart on your sleeve, too, you might be put off by some of the more painful aspects of dating, but your sensitivity and openness to your emotions are both beautiful traits. Someone out there will appreciate them. You just have to take precautions and protect your heart.
1 First of All, You do Not Need to Change
You wear your heart on your sleeve and that's beautiful, but it is essential to remember that there are people in the world who are happy to take advantage of something like that – and someone like you.
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2 Remember That It's Important to Hold Back a Little at First
For that reason, when you first meet someone, try not to give away too much about yourself, at least not right away.
3 Always Make Sure the Person You're Dating is Honest and Authentic
Remember, only authentic people deserve a piece of your heart in the first place.
4 Look for Warning Signs and Red Flags
If someone mimics your personality and desires or tries to push you into doing something you're not comfortable with, you need to say goodbye.
5 Don't Put All Your Trust into Someone You Just Met
I really can't stress enough how important it is to build trust first – make sure the person you're dating is actually trustworthy.
6 Practice Light Flirting and Casual Conversation
This can keep you from taking things too seriously too fast, plus it leaves room for something to grow.
7 Save Your Secrets for Much Later Dates
With the right person, you'll have plenty of time to reveal them.
8 Don't Take It Personally when Things Don't Go Well
It's going to hurt when you're rejected, don't get a second date, or find yourself in the company of a real douche, but you can't take it personally – those people aren't worth your time anyway.
9 Don't Let Anyone Force You into Something You Don't Want
Some people will make the mistake of thinking that you're weak or easy to manipulate, just because you wear your heart on your sleep.
10 You May Need Some Opinions from the People Who Know You Best
Talk to your friends about your dates, especially the ones you really like – they can give you advice and help you spot red flags.
11 Realize That Some People May Take Advantage of Your Sweetness
They suck, they're hopefully few and far between, but they are out there.
12 Other People May Pretend to Be Exactly What You Want
See above.
13 Don't Let That Scare You Away from Dating Entirely
There are so many lovely, genuine people out there, after all – you just have to wade through the rotten apples sometimes.
14 Be Honest about What You're Looking for
Own what you want and don't be ashamed to say it – it's helpful down the line.
15 Learn about Each Other Slowly and Steadily
Again, for the people who are worth it, there's all the time in the world.
16 Don't Be Disappointed by the Crappy Dates
Don't be hurt by them, either.
17 Remember That You Will Find Someone Worthy of Your Heart
In fact, you might meet someone who wears their heart on their sleeve, too.
