Numbers Game

The Numbers Game is the prequel to the Dating Games. Without the exchange of a phone number then the Dating Games wouldn’t exist.

Why is there sometimes so much drama and anxiety attached to a phone number? Before cell phones, getting or giving out a phone number seemed so much simpler. Now you have to wonder; is the number fake? Are they going to call? Do I have to call first or will they? If I call will they pick-up? If they don’t pick-up will they return my call?

You would think that if someone gives out or takes a phone number and they aren’t at least 90% sure how they feel about the person (if they can see going on a date or wanting to get to know them better), than why exchange numbers? Some people feel that it’s rude to not ask for a phone number when they have been talking to someone for a while, but isn’t more rude to take a phone number and not use?

There are many Numbers Games that people play, here are just a few:

1) Most Annoying Game Of All: “Phone Tag.”

This is a horrible version of Marco Polo.

“Phone Tag” is when you have a hard time getting hold of someone; you feel like yelling “Marco” in hopes they will hear you and call, but… you never hear “Polo.” Every time you call or they call you, you get each others answering machine. You start to wonder if your Polo even exists. At this point, it’s probably best to open your eyes and move on!

2) Frequently Played Game: “Can I Have Your Number?...But Will Never Call.”

This is a pointless game of Duck, Duck, Goose (minus the Goose).

“Can I Have Your Number?...But Will Never Call” is when you give your number out to someone who appears very interested at the time, but they end up not calling you. Hmmm? It’s a game of Duck, Duck, Goose; except you’re the duck and there is no goose. For them (the goose) the game is all about getting the digits; and this person gets many (ducks). Once they have gotten your number the game is over for this goose!

3) The Longest Game: “How Long Can I Wait?”

This is a screwed up version of Forget me, Forget me Not.

“How Long Can I Wait” is when the person you gave your number to take weeks/months to call, making you wonder if they forgot you. When they finally call, they will be insulted that you don’t remember who they are (seriously?). The joy you should be feeling turns into annoyance especially when they act as if it was just yesterday you gave them your number. This “Forget Me Not” is definitely worth forgetting!

4) Incredibly Obnoxious Game: “Inebriated Dialer.”

This is a regretful game of Sorry.

“Inebriated Dialer” is when someone only contacts you when they are drunk. After a few drinks, they get lonely and desperate; and unfortunately, they contact you. This person is in dire need of the iPhone’s “Drunk Text Savior” app, that way they will be less “Sorry” in the morning.

5) Most Frustrating Game: “The Texter.”

This is a wordy game of Scrabble.

“The Texter” will only text you…never call. Half the time, this person use so many acronyms, you can’t understand the message: this Scrabble game is definitely missing pieces. This person is obviously too lazy and doesn’t care enough about you to pick up the phone. Unless you’re a texter-only type…don’t waste your time. Send them a text they will clearly understand: “C u nvr!”

6) The Most Confusing Game: “Who’s Number Does This Belong To?”

This is a messed up game of Charades.

“Who’s Number Does This Belong To?” is when you’ve given your number out, and the person you gave your number to, doesn’t remember who you are or what you look like. When they call or text, they send hints to find out…even though you just met them a few days ago. How insulting! This is a losing game of Charades.

7) Inappropriate Game: “What Are You (Not) Wearing?”

This is a risky game of Truth and Dare.

“What Are You (Not) Wearing?” is when you give your number out, haven’t even been on a date, and the person who has your number sends you naked photos AND sexting messages. Not only is that inappropriate, they will also expect you to return the favor. Truthfully…how Dare they!

The bottom line, the numbers games are just as exhausting as the dating games. Love yourself enough to know your limits and recognize when it’s time to delete someone’s number.

****To Read "The Dating Games" article go to my blog, twitter or Miss-Reflections Facebook page****