Tips for Successful Holiday Dating

From Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist and scientific advisor

1. Family and romance don't always mix. Be careful about including him or her in family holiday activities.

2. Curb your generosity when buying your date presents or she/he may think you're more serious than you really are.

3. Do something 'different' with your date like a carriage ride, skating, sledding, or driving around to see outdoor Christmas lights. Unique activities drive up dopamine in the brain and can stimulate romance.

4. Holding hands with your date can affect oxytocin levels in the brain and increase feelings of trust and attachment.

5. At holiday parties, introduce your date to your friends, explain who people are, how you know them, and then continually include your date in your conversations.

6. There is a fine line between bragging and telling your date about yourself.

7. If you're drinking, be aware of how much you're drinking during your date.

8. Don't listen to everything your friends and family say about your date. You're dating this person, not them.

9. If you have the holiday blues, try not to let it affect your date, or consider waiting to date until after the holidays.

10. Be on time or call your date and let them know you're running late.