How to Stay Awake Until Midnight on New Year's Eve

If you’re used to going to bed early, it can be tough to stay awake until midnight on New Year’s Day. No one wants to fall asleep too early to see the ball drop. This year, keep your eyes open long enough to countdown to the New Year!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Staying Active

1. Talk to people. If you’re around friends or family for New Year’s, make conversation with them to stay awake. Keep your mind entertained by being social.
   
   • Listen to their stories.
   • Laugh at their jokes.
   • Talk to them about their interests.
2. Stay on your feet. Dance, walk around the house or even challenge your friends to a push up contest. Whatever you do, just make sure not to sit or lay down. You don’t want to get too comfortable or you might end up drifting off to sleep.
   
3. Do fun things. Play games with your friends and family. Play pranks on people. Take turns making New Year’s resolutions with everyone. Do anything that entertains your mind and keeps you up.^[1]
   
   • If it's legal in your city, shooting off fireworks can be really exciting. Just be very careful around fire and supervise little kids.
   • Taking pictures of everyone in funny poses can make for a really great time.
4. Help out. If you’re at a party, you can help the cook prepare food for everyone. You can even play bartender and make cocktails for everyone. Volunteer to clean up a bit as well. Not only will helping out ingratiate you with the host, it will keep your mind focused and awake.
   

[Edit]Fighting the Sleepiness

1. Use caffeine. Caffeine blocks sleep inducing neurotransmitters in your brain to keep you awake.^[2] When you start to feel yourself getting sleepy, drink a cup of coffee or something else with caffeine. Avoid caffeine in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve as it becomes less effective with overuse.
   
   • Most sodas have caffeine.
   • Energy drinks like Redbull and Monster have a lot of caffeine.
   • Some dark chocolates contain caffeine.
   • Keep in mind that while this is a very effective method, it's not healthy. Don't drink caffeine at night often, as disrupting your sleep cycle can be bad for your health.
2. Change your body temperature. Vary your body temperature from hot to cold to jolt yourself into alertness. The shock will give your body and mind an instant burst of energy.
   
   • Splash some cold water on your face.^[3]
   • Take a quick shower. Switch the water from cold to hot and then back again to wake your body up and improve your circulation.
   • You can get a similar effect by chewing ice or drinking a cold beverage.
3. Flip on the light switch. It will be harder for you to fall asleep with all the lights on. Make your environment is as bright as possible.
   
   • You may want to move to a different room and turn the lights on there to avoid bothering other people.
4. Listen to music. Put on your favorite upbeat tune and let it energize your spirit. Turn up the volume as loud as you can.^[4]
   
   • Use headphones if there’s other people around. However, don't turn up the volume too high or you might risk hearing damage.
   • Avoid slow songs that could relax you to sleep.
5. Get some fresh air. If you’re with a lot of people on New Year’s Eve, the atmosphere may be very crowded. This can make the air very hot and humid which can make you very sleepy.^[5] Go outside to get some fresh oxygen to rejuvenate yourself.
   
6. Enjoy a film. Watch a really fun film to engage your senses. A good action film will wipe away your sleepiness and keep you on the edge of your seat.
   
   • Avoid films that are too long or slow. Keeping up with a long, complicated plot can leave you feeling drained.
7. Use peppermint oil. The smell of peppermint can wake up your senses. Rub some oil on your hands, temples and upper lip. The smell may be very strong, so you might have to keep your distance from people for a while.^[6]
   
   • Strong citrus scents can also do the trick.
   • Don’t use lavender, it can be too relaxing.

[Edit]Preparing to Stay Awake

1. Eat nutritious foods throughout the day. Eat vitamin rich foods that will give you energy. You’ll need plenty of Vitamin C and B and omega-3 fatty acids to give yourself the energy to stay awake. Avoid foods with tryptophan like turkey that can make you feel tired and sluggish.^[7]
   
   • Salmon and walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and will boost your metabolism.
   • Oranges and other citrus fruits are a great source of Vitamin C.
   • Eggs and beans are very B vitamin rich.
   • Eat small meals often to keep your metabolism running. Larger meals can make you sluggish.
2. Get a full eight hours of sleep the night before. Make sure your body has enough sleep to operate. It will be really hard to have enough energy to stay awake on New Year’s Eve if you’re sleep deprived from the night before.
   
   • Don’t over do it. Sleeping too much can make you feel groggy.
3. Take a walk. Low-impact exercise can give you extra energy. Take a thirty minute walk on New Year’s Eve to get your blood pumping and help you stay awake.^[8] The sunlight you get from outside will also help your body absorb Vitamin D.
   
   • Keep it light. Heavy exercise can burn you out and make you feel tired.
4. Take a nap. If you’re worried you still won’t be able to make it to midnight, take a nap in the middle of the day. Set an alarm to make sure you don’t oversleep. A short nap of forty-five minutes or less will leave you feeling energized. If you go longer, it could make you more tired.
   
   • If you have time, a ninety minute nap will allow your body to get through a rem sleep cycle which can make up for some sleep you’ll be losing on New Year’s.

[Edit]Tips

• Always keep your mind occupied to stay awake.
• Ask a friend to wake you up in advance just in case you do fall asleep.
• Chew gum or put a mint in your mouth to engage your senses and wake your body up.
• Get up and move around. Try not to sit or lay down because you might get too comfortable and accidentally fall asleep.

[Edit]Warnings

• Don’t start drinking caffeine too early, or your energy level will crash.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol. It will make you extremely drowsy.
• Try not to eat turkey, there is a chemical which will make you drowsy.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ http://lifeasmom.com/10-fun-things-new-years-eve-kids/
2. ↑ https://www.sharecare.com/health/coffee-drink-health/how-caffeine-keep-me-awake
3. ↑ http://lifehacker.com/5803845/how-to-manipulate-your-body-to-wake-the-hell-up
4. ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.com/us/entry/wake-up-without-coffee-its-possible_n_6096518.html?slideshow=true#gallery/379572/9
5. ↑ http://www.sitepoint.com/top-5-tips-for-staying-awake/
6. ↑ http://www.inc.com/kevin-daum/12-non-caffeinated-ways-to-wake-up-at-work.html
7. ↑ http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/best-foods-all-day-energy
8. ↑ http://www.livecareer.com/career-tips/career-advice/professionalism/stay-awake-at-work-without-caffeine

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/SZAsXhe

How to Throw a New Year's Eve Party

New Year's Eve is one of the biggest celebrations of the year for many people. It's a great time to spend together with your family and friends as you say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. Throwing a great New Year's Eve party can help make the celebrations even more enjoyable. Get inspired and host the perfect party for you and those close to you.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Planning the Party

1. Think of the location. Before you can start planning the party, you will need to think of a location to have it in. You'll need to find a space that you can easily access and that has enough space for everyone you're thinking of inviting. Take some time to think of the perfect space for your New Year's Eve party.
   
   • If the party is at a club, and there will be admission charges, make sure that is on the invitation as well. Even if there is no charge, some people like to dedicate the party proceeds to a friend in need or a charity.
   • You can host the party in your home. This can help cut down on costs.^[1]
   • Try asking a friend to co-host the party in their home if they have the space.
   • You might rent a party hall if you need a lot of room for guests.
2. Consider who should attend the party. It's not a party unless there are guests. You'll want to consider who you want to invite to your party and how many people should come. Thinking of the perfect guest list can help make your party a good one.
   
   • Make sure the uppers (party animals) and downers (wallflowers) ratio is balanced so that nothing will get broken and nobody injured, but everybody will have a good time. Generally you'll want to have 1 downer for every 5 uppers, but you may want to adjust this based on the location and availability of security and emergency services.
   • Consider how many people can comfortably fit in the space you are hosting the party in.
   • Inviting less people can help you keep the cost of the party low and let you connect better with your guests.^[2]
3. Think of when you want guests to arrive and leave. Once you know who is coming and where you will host the party, you can begin to plan the party schedule. You'll need to consider when you want your guests to begin arriving and when they should expect the party to end. Creating this schedule will give you time to prepare before the party and will let your guests know what to expect.
   
   • Not all New Year's Eve parties need to run late. You can end the party whenever you would like.
   • If your guests are staying late, you should be prepared to offer them a bed or some place to sleep.
4. Send the invitations. Make them lively looking, and make sure to write down any necessary gear or things they should bring, such as swimsuits, food, drinks, after Christmas sale gifts, or whatever.
   
5. Plan the party for everyone. Try to keep each guest in mind when you are planning your party. Ideally, your party will have something for everyone. It's important to think of all the ages, tastes, and preferences of your guests when planning your party. Take some time and review your guest list to make sure everyone will have a good time at your party.
   
   • If there are children coming, make sure you have things that they may enjoy. You might leave out a video game or other fun activity for them.
   • Think about what kinds of food and music all of your guests might like. Your guests may not have the same tastes, so try to pick things that you think everyone would agree on.
6. Think about food and drink options. Before you throw your New Year's Eve party, you will want to consider how you are going to handle food and drink. You may choose to offer all the food and drinks for your guests or ask them to bring something to share. Whichever option you go with, knowing what to expect in regards to refreshments can help make your party a success.
   
   • If you want to provide all food and drink yourself, think about which items your guests might prefer. Try to provide something you think everyone would enjoy.
   • It can help cut down on costs if you ask your guests to bring something to pass.
7. Plan out activities. It can be a good idea to tell your guests what they can expect to be doing during the party. Most New Year's Eve parties are centered around the ball drop and the midnight countdown. However, you can plan whatever fun events you might want to include in your party.
   
   • Planning an evening of music, food, and good conversation can make for a simple and fun party.
   • You might try offering board games for your guests to play together.
   • Your party might feature a fun competition. For example, the best dressed guest could win a prize.
   • Tell your guests what activities they can expect in the invitations.
8. Send out invitations. Once you've planned the location, the guest list, and the schedule, you can create and send out invitations. The invitation will list all the information about the party and will let your guest know that they are welcome. Consider some of these methods of sending the invitations:
   
   • By mail.
   • By email.
   • Making an e-card.^[3]
   • Using social media.
   • By phone call.

[Edit]Setting Things Up

1. Set out drinks. Most every party has some kind of beverage available to guests. Exactly what kind of beverages you offer will depend on your guest's preferences. Think about what your friends and family would like to drink and put them out during the party. Keep some of these tips in mind when considering which beverages might be a good idea:
   
   • You should always provide water for your guests.
   • Most adults will enjoy an alcoholic beverage. Try to provide some beer or wine for guests.
   • It can be a good idea to have soft drinks available at your party.
   • Your guests might enjoy coffee and tea.
   • If there are children coming, you may want to have something like juice or milk ready.
   • You can ask your friends and family to bring some drinks to the party.^[4]
2. Offer the right food. Nearly all parties will offer some kind of food to guests. Exactly what kind of food will depend on how many people are attending, how much you can budget for the food, and how long the party goes on for. You can make a meal or just offer snacks, depending on what you think will be best for your guests. Consider some of these tips when providing food for your guests: ^[5]
   
   • A simple snack tray is usually provided at parties. This snack tray may have things like crackers, cheese slices, and fruit or vegetables.
   • You might try making a group meal for everyone. This might be a big pot of soup or stew, something that can feed a lot of people at once.
   • You could try asking your guests to bring something for everyone to eat.
3. Provide tableware. Although food and drink are big parts of a party, you'll need to give your guests a way to enjoy them. Providing things like plates, cups, napkins, and silverware are just as important as providing the food and drink itself. Make sure you have enough supplies to help keep your party running smoothly.
   
   • You should have enough plates and cups for everyone at the party.
   • You might want to buy paper or plastic tableware. However, these can make the party more costly.^[6]
   • Make sure you have napkins or paper towels handy.
   • It can be helpful to have a trashcan out for everyone to use.
4. Decorate. To help make your party feel complete, it can be a good idea to add some decorations. These decorations can be as extravagant or simple as you would like. Try using some of these simple decoration tips for your New Year's eve party:^[7]
   
   • Keep your Christmas decorations up to maintain the holiday look.
   • Make your own decorations. For example, you can make a gold bow tie garland by painting bow-tie pasta noodles gold and stringing them together.
   • Wrap tinsel around the end of a toothpick or drink stirrer.

[Edit]Entertaining Guests

1. Have a way to watch the ball drop if applicable. A big part of New Year's Eve celebrations in the United States is watching the ball drop in Times Square at midnight. It can be a good idea to have some way for your guests to watch the ball as it descends at midnight. You might try using some of these methods to bring the ball drop to your guests:
   
   • Make sure you subscribe to a television channel that covers the event.
   • You can find live streaming coverage of the ball drop online.
   • You might move the party to a local bar around midnight to watch the countdown together.
2. Play some music. A great party is often not complete without music. Music can help any party to feel alive, and your New Year's Eve celebration isn't any different. Think about what kind of music you and your guests might want to listen to and build a great playlist for the party.^[8]
   
   • Consider the musical taste of those attending your party. Avoid songs that might make some guests uncomfortable.
   • Make sure you have enough music to cover the length of the party.
   • You could try streaming services like Pandora to play music during your party.
   • Try to find a good volume level for your party.
3. Make sure everyone is engaged. The point of a party is to celebrate. During the party, it's a good idea to spend some time with everyone who attended. This can help make them feel welcome and included in the celebration. Always keep an eye on guests to make sure they are having the best time possible.
   
   • Plan fun group activities. For example, you might build a photo booth or offer some games for people to play.^[9]
   • If someone looks alone or bored, bring them into a conversation or start one up with them.
   • Introduce new people to one another.
4. Countdown. The focus of the evening will be on the countdown to midnight and the new year. As the clock approaches 12, you'll want to gather everyone around and get ready for the countdown. This can be a great way to bring everyone together and end your New Year's Eve party on a high note.^[10]
   
   • Most people start counting down at 10 seconds from midnight.
   • Some people enjoy opening a bottle of champagne once the clock strikes 12.
   • Feel free to make up your own traditions for the countdown.
5. Wrap things up. Once your guests have enjoyed ringing in the New Year with you, it's time to bring the party to a close. Make sure your guests all have a safe way home or are comfortable with the accommodations that you have provided. You may also want to clean up a bit while the party is coming to a close. After the party is over, get some sleep and enjoy the new year.
   
   • Before going to bed, it's a good idea to make sure that all the leftover food and drink are put away.
   • You may also want to put all the trash in a bin or bag.
   • Removing decorations, sweeping, and other cleaning can probably wait until the morning.
   • Never let someone drive drunk. If your guests are driving home, make sure they are sober.

[Edit]Tips

• Properly planning your party can help make it a success.
• Make sure you have enough room for everyone you plan on inviting.
• Think about what foods and drink your guests might like the most.
• Try to play music that you think everyone will enjoy.
• Counting down the last 10 seconds of the year is great tradition.
• Always plan in advance.

[Edit]Warnings

• Do not let anyone drive drunk.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Food
• Drinks
• Plates, cups, and silverware
• Entertainment
• Decorations

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Start the New Year Fresh

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/
2. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/
3. ↑ http://www.thepennyhoarder.com/new-years-eve-party/
4. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/
5. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/
6. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/
7. ↑ http://www.thepennyhoarder.com/new-years-eve-party/
8. ↑ http://www.thepennyhoarder.com/new-years-eve-party/
9. ↑ http://www.thepennyhoarder.com/new-years-eve-party/
10. ↑ http://www.moneytalksnews.com/10-tips-for-throwing-awesome-but-cheap-new-years-eve-party/

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/UEuJ4t1

How to Make a Disco Ball with CDs

Step-by-step instructions for creating the grooviest and sparkliest craft ever

Do you have boogie fever? We’ve heard it’s going around, and the only cure is a DIY disco ball! Thankfully, this cure is relatively easy to make and only requires a Styrofoam ball, paint, old CDs, and hot glue. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to create a funky, groovy, and totally radical disco ball.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Poke a hole through the middle of a Styrofoam ball and paint it silver to use as the base of your disco ball.
• Cut recycled CDs into strips and tiny pieces to act as the disco ball’s mirrors.
• Glue your CD pieces around the Styrofoam ball in even rows with hot glue.
• Use a piece of fishing line or clear string to hang your DIY disco ball to the ceiling so you can dance the night away.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]The Base

1. Poke a hole through the center of a Styrofoam ball. Use a skewer, knitting needle, or screwdriver to pierce a hole through the ball's middle. Pull your long tool out of the ball gently, so you’re left with a long hole through the center of the Styrofoam.^[1]
   
   • The size of the Styrofoam ball doesn’t matter—pick whatever size you’d like! Just keep in mind that the smaller the ball, the smaller your CD tile pieces will have to be.
2. Slide a folded piece of wire through the hole you created.^[2] Cut a piece of craft wire that’s twice as long as your Styrofoam ball using wire cutters or scissors. Fold the wire in half and thread it through the ball’s hole. Leave about of looped wire outside the ball.
   
   • The looped wire sticking out will help you hang your DIY disco ball later.
   • The thinner gauge wire you use, the easier it’ll be to slide through.
3. Twist the looped wire into place with a pencil to make a hook. Widen the looped wire with your fingers, and slide a pencil through it. Spin the pencil around to wrap and secure the loop and wire in place. Remove the pencil after twisting it at least 3 times.
   
   • If you don’t have a pencil on hand, try using a pen or the long tool you used to poke a hole in the Styrofoam ball (skewer, long knitting needle, or screwdriver).
4. Fold over the excess wire on the end without the hook. Gently tug on the opposite end of the wire (the one without a loop) until the loop is flush against the top of the Styrofoam ball. Push one end of the wire to the left and the other to the right. This will keep your disco ball from sliding off its loop.
   
   • Add a dab of hot glue or super glue to the wire ends for a stronger hold.
5. Paint the Styrofoam ball silver to make it look more realistic. Use Styrofoam-friendly spray paint or acrylic paint. This step isn’t necessary, but can help conceal the Styrofoam if there are any gaps between your tiles.^[3]
   
   • For an extra layer of sparkle, use a glitter silver or metallic paint.
   • The acetone in spraypaint can melt Styrofoam, so look for paints that are mostly water- or alcohol-based, like Liquitex Spray Paint and MTA Water Based.^[4]

[Edit]CD Tiles

1. Boil a pot of water to dip your CDs in. CDs can be hard to break and cut on their own, but a little heat can make them more malleable. Fill a pot with water and set it on the stove at high heat. Wait for the water to start bubbling.^[5]
   
2. Use a pair of tongs to dip the CDs into the boiling water. Remove the pot from the heat. Press the CD between the tongs and submerge it in the water for a few seconds. Don’t let it touch the bottom of the pot. Pull the CD out when you notice the edges curling in.^[6]
   
   • Recycle old, scratched, or broken CDs for this DIY project.^[7]
   • Use all silver CDs for a realistic disco ball or opt for an array of colors for a groovier vibe.
   • Work with one CD at a time.
   • The CD will become hard again once it cools, so boil each CD one at a time, so you have time to cut them while they’re warm.
3. Cut the warm CDs into wide strips. Use heavy duty craft scissors, kitchen shears, or metal cutters for the best results. Start at one edge of the CD and cut vertically towards the center.^[8]
   
   • Use your hands to wiggle stubborn pieces away from the disc.
   • Avoid using CDs that peel when you cut them, as they won’t give the same mosaic, disco ball effect.
   • Put on a pair of gloves if the CDs are too warm in your hands.
4. Trim the CD strips into squares. Use scissors, shears, or metal cutters to chop the strips into smaller squares. Work on each piece one at a time. These will be the “mirrors” of your disco ball.^[9]
   
   • Consider omitting the curved edges of the CD strips if you want each mirror piece to be uniform.
   • For a more decorative mosaic look, cut the disc into different-sized squares or triangles.

[Edit]Assembly

1. Hot glue the first few tiles around the center of the Styrofoam ball. Place the ball in a cup or bowl to keep it from rolling around while you work. Dab a dot of hot glue onto the back of a CD tile piece, and quickly press it against the Styrofoam. Start in the center and work your way around the ball.^[10]
   
   • Line the tiles up so that their edges touch and they’re flush with each other for a classic, uniform look.
   • Keep a small space between each tile for a mosaic-style disco ball.^[11]
   • Cover the folded wire with tiles the best you can.
2. Continue gluing the CD tiles to the ball in even rows. Work your way around the Styrofoam ball, placing each tile one at a time. Flip your ball around in the bowl as you go. If your tiles don’t fit towards the top or bottom, trim them down to size.^[12]
   
3. Dry and clean up your disco ball. Hot glue tends to leave little strings of hot glue behind. To remove these, take a blow dryer and dry the disco ball with low heat to make sure all the glue is set. Then, use your fingers and/or scissors to remove any stubborn threads.^[13]
   
4. Hang your disco ball up with fishing line. Thread a piece of clear string or fishing line through your disco ball’s loop. Secure it with an overhand knot (think of it like tying a shoe). Then, tie the other ends to a ceiling hook.^[14]
   
   • Play around with the height of your disco ball by using more line to make it lower and less line to make it higher.
5. Shine a light on your disco ball and dance. Now all that’s left to do is boogie! Aim a flashlight or spotlight on your DIY disco ball and watch as the room sparkles. Turn on some funky beats and show the world how groovy you are!
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Warnings

• CD shards and pieces can be sharp, so use caution when cutting or ask a grown-up for help.
• Be careful when handling hot glue, as the glue can burn and blister skin when it’s hot.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Styrofoam ball
• Skewer, long knitting needle, or screwdriver
• Craft wire
• Silver acrylic paint or spray paint (optional)
• CDs
• Kitchen pot
• Tongs
• Kitchen shears, craft scissors, or metal cutters
• Hot glue gun and sticks
• Fishing line or clear string

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Make Bowls out of Vinyl Records
• Reuse and Recycle Old CDs and DVDs

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=158
2. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=163
3. ↑ http://www.skiptomylou.org/diy-disco-ball-by-girl-with-a-glue-gun/
4. ↑ https://youtu.be/zdqCDGOKnJo?t=72
5. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=112
6. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=121
7. ↑ http://www.skiptomylou.org/diy-disco-ball-by-girl-with-a-glue-gun/
8. ↑ https://youtu.be/m7ryaniq7Dg?t=5
9. ↑ https://youtu.be/m7ryaniq7Dg?t=10
10. ↑ https://youtu.be/QTT-9oiAusE?t=161
11. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=184
12. ↑ https://youtu.be/QTT-9oiAusE?t=183
13. ↑ http://www.skiptomylou.org/diy-disco-ball-by-girl-with-a-glue-gun/
14. ↑ https://youtu.be/f7Hkl4uks74?t=175

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/prqTaOz

How to Talk About Your Dating History

Whether you’ve been seeing someone for a couple of weeks or a couple of years, discussing your past can be tricky. While it’s important to be honest, it’s also important to consider your new partner’s feelings. Discuss your dating history effectively by having an honest conversation, informing them of necessary information, and avoiding common issues.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Discussing Your Past

1. Choose the right time. Wait until things become a bit serious with someone before discussing your dating history. You do not need to talk about your exes on the first date, and doing so will likely not land you a second. But, if a month or so has passed and you want to progress with them, now could be the right time.^[1]
   
   • Talking truthfully about your dating history is a good way to build trust and strengthen an already-established relationship. By opening up about your past, you are allowing yourself to be vulnerable with the other person.
   • If somebody asks about your dating history on a first date and you don't want to go into great depth on that yet, you can say something like "Here's the 30 second version." That way you answer their question without having to delve into detail.^[2]
2. Set aside the time to talk. Talk about your past in a nice, quiet location when the two of you have plenty of time to chat. You might choose to go on a walk or to sit out on the balcony with a glass of lemonade.
   
   • Avoid having this discussion during times when they are stressed at work or school.
3. Open up with a question. Ask something like “What is the most important lesson that you learned from a past relationship?” Once they share their story, you can begin to share stories of your own.^[3]
   
   • You might say something like “I learned to never take my partner for granted. When I dated my ex, she was always asking me to spend time with her and I rarely did, so she broke up with me. I don’t want her back, but I did learn that you can’t maintain so much distance from people.”
4. Share information relevant to your relationship now. Talk about the lessons that you learned from past relationships that can help with how you date now. Avoid going off on long tangents about exes; instead relate things back to your current partner.^[4]
   
   • You can say “When I dated Trevor, I learned to be more open minded about politics. That’s why it was important for me to watch the debates with you and learn about your views.”
5. Answer questions. You may have told your new partner something pretty heavy about a past relationship. This may leave them with several questions or concerns. Be honest with them, but also let them know if you feel uncomfortable.^[5]
   
   • For instance, perhaps you shared that you were abused by an ex. They might begin to ask a lot of questions which bring up painful memories for you. Let them know that you can talk more about it later.
6. Emphasize what you like about your current partner. In order to make your new love more comfortable, use this time to compliment them. You do not need to bash your exes, but you can talk about how your past has brought you to a more bright and hopeful present.^[6]
   
   • You might say “After dating Chris, I knew I could never date another smoker. Dating you, I appreciate how concerned you are about your health. I really respect that.”
7. Address any potential embarrassments. If you have a limited dating history or have had only short-lived relationships, you might feel uncomfortable discussing your past. However, take what you have learned from these experiences and use them to improve your current relationship.
   
   • For instance, if you haven’t dated much, you might have used that time to focus on work or school, but have learned that life without love isn’t much fun.
   • From short relationships, you might have learned exactly what you don’t need from a partner, or you may have corrected some of your own faults because of them.
   • Bear in mind that if your partner is unable to accept these things about you, they might not be the right person for you.

[Edit]Divulging Important Information

1. Inform them if you are divorced or have children. Sharing your dating history is important, but if you were married or have children, let them know early on. For some, these things might be dealbreakers.^[7]
   
   • Share information like this on the first or second date.
   • If you do have children, it might be a good idea to think ahead of time about when you would realistically feel comfortable introducing them to your significant other.^[8]
2. Let them know if you still talk to your ex. Talking to your current partner about your past can be tricky if you are still friends with any exes. But, they deserve to know. Be sure to let them know how often you communicate and whether you spend time together.^[9]
   
   • You might say “I’m still friends with Gabriella, who I dated two years ago. We text every so often and sometimes have lunch. We don’t have any romantic feelings for one another anymore.”
3. Tell them if you have dated someone they know. In some cases, you may have had a relationship or fling with someone your new partner knows. If they are friends, coworkers, or close acquaintances, then you should share this information as soon as possible.
   
   • Say “I noticed from your social media that you know Frank. He and I dated for about three months last year. I don’t know how close the two of you are, but I thought you should know.”
4. Inform them of any pending issues with an ex. You and an ex may have shared a home, car, or business together. Or maybe you two have the same friend group and have to be around one another often. Whatever the case, be sure to let your new partner know of any unfinished business the two of you may have.^[10]
   

[Edit]Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Be honest about your history. Though it can be tempting to lie to avoid tough questions, typically the truth always comes out. If you lie or omit important issues from the start, they may linger and come back to cause problems later in the relationship. Tell your dating partner what they want to know and avoid lies of omission. If you feel uncomfortable with a certain topic, tell them you don’t want to talk about that.^[11]
   
2. Keep the details to a minimum. Discussing your dating history does not mean that you need to discuss how your ex’s silvery blonde hair glistened in the moonlight. Mention key aspects of your relationship like length, important events, and why things ended, and keep it at that.^[12]
   
3. Don’t judge. Your new partner might share some secrets about their past that might be tough for you to hear. However, be open minded with them and avoid judging them on their past. We all make mistakes, but if you can see that they’ve grown, give them the benefit of the doubt.^[13]
   
   • For instance, if they tell you that they cheated a few years back, you might want to give them a chance. However, if they have cheated on everyone they’ve dated, this is a red flag.
4. Be mindful of red flags. While it is good to keep an open mind and give people a chance, trust your instincts and be cautious about potential problem signs. It’s easy to fall into the same relationship pitfalls over and over, because we seek comfort in the familiar (even if the familiar is not necessarily good).^[14]
   
   • For example, if you broke up with your last partner because they were too emotionally distant, pay attention to signs of the same issue with your current partner.
5. Be wary of discussing your sexual past. Discussing the number of sexual partners you’ve had or sexual experiences in general can be tricky. You want to be honest with your partner, but being too honest can spark jealousy. If you talk a lot about how much past sexual experience you’ve had, your current partner may begin to feel like just another “conquest.” Keep talk of your sexual past to a minimum. Stick to generalities, and only discuss it in detail if it’s relevant to your partner’s questions.^[15]
   
   • However, if you have an STD, you should disclose this before having sex with anyone.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Avoid the Most Common Mistakes Men Make with Online Dating
• Respond When Asked About Dating a Friend
• Enjoy Dating
• Smell Seductive on Dates

[Edit]References

__

1. ↑ http://www.datingadvice.com/for-men/how-to-discussing-dating-histories
2. ↑ [v161414_b01]. 8 May 2020.
3. ↑ http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/When_to_Share_Your_Relationship_History_While_Dating_Someone_New.html
4. ↑ http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/When_to_Share_Your_Relationship_History_While_Dating_Someone_New.html
5. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/some-assembly-required/201703/how-have-difficult-conversations
6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/love-and-gratitude/201304/10-ways-express-love
7. ↑ http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING/personal/11/06/date.after.divorce/
8. ↑ [v161414_b01]. 8 May 2020.
9. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/close-encounters/201609/whats-going-when-you-stay-in-touch-your-ex
10. ↑ http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-11-07/features/sc-fam-1106-old-flames-20121106_1_exes-gory-details-relationships
11. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-14424/6-rules-for-open-honest-communication-with-the-person-you-love.html
12. ↑ http://www.datingadvice.com/for-men/how-to-discussing-dating-histories
13. ↑ http://www.datingadvice.com/for-men/how-to-discussing-dating-histories
14. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/anxiety-zen/201603/why-do-we-repeat-the-past-in-our-relationships
15. ↑ https://au.reachout.com/articles/communicating-sexual-history

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