What stage are you in?

1. When friends ask you about a special someone, does anyone come to mind?

a. No, unless you are talking about my dog.

b. Hmmm ... the image is hazy.

c. My pals don't have to ask. They know who already.

2. Do you and your partner do things together, like go to the movies, without other friends?

a. Does SMS-ing each other count?

b. Every weekend

c.We would go to the washroom together if we can.

3.Has he or she talked about a common future together?

a. We don't discuss anything that will happen more than five miniutes later.

b. Sometimes, about when I should visit my possible in-laws.

c.We are going house-hunting already.

4. Has he/she mentioned marriage before?

a. Only when we gossip about others.

b. I have been getting questions about my ideal wedding.

c.We are going to the jewellery store to browse at rocks.

5. How are you introduced to his/her buddies?

a. What buddies?

b. You are "a friend".

c. Sweetheart honey / darling/ significant other

6. How many times do you two talk in a given week?

a. Once a week, if I'm lucky.

b. As and 'when we have something to say

c. I'm in debt because of my phone bills

7. Have you received any gifts from himjher?

a. No. That stingy (add your own expletive)

b. Nothing big or expensive - just candy.

c. See this diamond bracelet?

If your answers are ...

• Mainly "A:' - you are in the introductory stage.
• Mainly "B"- you are considering the possibility of a relationship
• Mainly "C" - you are most likely to be dating exclusively

The four stages of dating and tips to succeed in each phase:

Stage 1: Introductory

Also termed as prospecting, this is the time when singles expand their social network circles, and make first contact with someone they are attracted to.

Tips:

• First impressions matter. Dress well and watch your body language.

Actually, positive and enthusiastic people are the most sought-after.

• Give your date a chance to talk.
• If you meet someone you can click with but do not experience instant sparks, do not write him or her off immediately.

Many strong marriages start off as friendships.

Stage 2: Exploration

At this stage, the individual is curtailing his or her options to a select few. He or she may go on several dates with different people to find out if the other party is the one.

Tips:

• Do not come across as needy or clingy. Do not call your date 10 times a day, and go crazy when he/she does not reply to your SMSes immediately.
• Find out more about each other, for example, your date's life philosophies, family background, values and beliefs.
• Go on double dates or group dates with I both your friends to observe how your partner interact with others. Your friends can also to give you their opinions of your date.

Stage 3: Exclusivity

Both are committed to each other. Seeing another man or woman as anoption is tantamount to unfaithfulness.

Tips:

• Ask questions about family planning, such as how many kids you want or if the other partner should stop working after marriage.
• Be trusting. Occasionally your partner may want to meet up with other circles of friends.
• Women tend to move into this stage earlier than men "Make sure your partner is ready before hinting about marriage. If you are not sure yet, keep to yourself first."

Stage 4: Pre-mamage

As the name suggests, marriage is almost a done deal. The engagement ring has been bought; the hotel for the banquet booked.

Tips:

• Get advice from parents and wedding planners for help.
• Churches and social counselling centres usually conduct pre-marital seminars and workshops for couples. They may give some informative advice for the soon-to-wed couples.