What Women Should Expect From Men In the Early Stages of Dating

Ah, the honeymoon!

When it comes to dating, we generally regard the early stages of seeing someone to be a time of relational bliss. It is the period of a relationship that is, at best, defined by lust, infatuation, and, of course, many exciting firsts. At worst, its the "good old days" a couple looks back on as the time before everything went.....downhill.

If you are looking to be in a healthy, happy, and sustainable relationship, there are things that you should look for as norms. In other words, if you and your partner are experiencing the following, you are probably on the right track......

Best Behavior: In the beginning, "normal" relationships consist of two imperfect people on their best, most perfect behavior. This is a time of chivalry, good manners, proper dating etiquette-think dates planned far in advance- and a sweeping any potential problems under the rug.

The dates within the first few months are generally more of the four or five star restaurant variety and less Chipotle and Netflix on the couch. Its a time in which both parties make an effort to look their best. Legs are shaved; sweats are left in the drawer. There are calls just to say "hi" and daily good morning texts.

Whether you have you partner on a pedestal as someone who could do no wrong or are just enjoying the fact that you haven't seen any "red flags" yet. you are thrilled at how well everything is going.

Sexual Attraction: At the start of a relationship that is going somewhere, you can't get enough of each other! There is such a sexual energy in the air! You are so physically attracted to each other. You feel a spark,butterflies, and the greatest excitement over, say, just brushing up against him or her. For some, the chemistry is so strong that they can barely keep their hands off each other. That's right: You feel like you are making out all over town, because you are! And if you are holding off on sleeping with each other, your hormones can make you feel like you are going crazy.

You should be crazy for each other. Its all so new and exciting; the early days are definitely the time to feel the sexual attraction. Sure, attraction can develop in time, but for most couples who keep that flame burning for decades and decades, the spark was there early on.

Want the honeymoon to last forever? For some couples, it can! For more dating and relationship advice, check out www.RachelRusso.com

Rachel Russo, MS, MFT is a Matchmaker, Dating & Relationship Coach, Author & Speaker. She has a master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Iona College, a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University, and a certification as an Intentional Relationship Coach. Rachel is the founder of Rachel Russo Relationships-a NYC-based dating and relationship consultancy-and has worked as a matchmaker for eleven years. Rachel is the author of two books: A Fab Job Guide To Become A Matchmaker and How To Get Over Your Ex: A Step By Step Guide To Mend A Broken Heart Italian American Style. Rachel has pretty much earned her PhD in men—many thanks to a reality-date-a-thon in which she went on ninety-two dates in one year and blogged about them.