Getting involved in a romance is the first step toward building a relationship that lasts. If you're looking for a long-term love, the tips in the following list can help you develop your attraction into something deeper:
Keep the relationship reciprocal, especially in the beginning, so you can keep the balance of power — and resulting feelings — even, too.
If you're female, try to let your partner lead. If you're male, most women will prefer that you lead — so don't be afraid to do so.
Be cautious about sex early in the relationship. Know what you're risking, and if you choose it, go into it with your eyes open.
As you get to know and trust one another, move gradually and slowly from being strangers to being lovers. Don't ruin the relationship by trying to make the jump in one — or a few — dates.
Use thought-stopping to avoid fantasizing about a future with someone you barely know, and to help you keep your emotional intimacy, sexual intimacy, and time actually spent in the relationship in sync.
