Can you really keep your cool and be happy even when you have to deal with dating mishaps, problems or issues? Yes... and you can take advantage of these issues to really get to know the person you're dating.

Why is dating so complicated? Dating is hard and complicated for most singles because everyone wants to do it well. And let's face it, nobody really knows how to do it well.  Even when you think you've figured out the "rules" for dating, the rules will quickly change when you start dating someone new. The "set of rules" for dating is like a moving target for most singles. What do you do?

Dating doesn't have to be so complicated. You can make it easier on yourself by accepting the fact that things will never be "perfect" when you date. Something will always go wrong. Especially if you've been dating someone for a while, it's guaranteed that something will go wrong. So, what can you do?

Just like anything else, misery is optional in dating. You can be miserable about dating mishaps, problems or issues or you can take advantage of them. What? Think about it.

Having dating mishaps, problems or issues is a great way to get to know the person you're dating. Why? Anyone can deal with a fun date. Anyone can be in their best behavior when the date is going perfectly well. But, when things are going badly, that's usually one of the rare opportunities for you to see how your date really handles life's imperfections.

So, how do you handle dating when it gets messy and complicated? Just relax. Don't worry about dating mishaps, problems or issues. Take advantage of them. Use them to get to know the person you're dating.

Is this person someone you should continue to hang out with? Is this person your best friend? Or is this person, the "one" for you? Let his or her conduct and behavior guide you in your decision. It's not what (s)he does when you're having fun and things are going well  —  anyone can do well and look good dealing with that! Your date's real character and values will be on display when (s)he has to deal with dating mishaps, problems or issues.

To your happiness...

Allie